Chrysler A904 TorqueFlite 3-Speed · Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/RAM · Expert rebuild service since 1987. Lifetime warranty. Free diagnostic.
1960–1999 Dodge Dart, Demon, Duster; 1960–1990 Plymouth Valiant, Barracuda; 1972–1999 Jeep CJ/Wrangler (4-cyl); 1960–1990 Chrysler compact cars; behind slant-6 and small-block engines
| Configuration | 3-speed automatic, lightweight aluminum case TorqueFlite |
|---|---|
| Gear Ratios | 1st 2.45:1 · 2nd 1.45:1 · 3rd 1.00:1 · Rev 2.21:1 |
| Fluid Type | Mopar ATF+4 (modern spec) or original Dexron/Type F for classic applications |
| Fluid Capacity | 8.5 qts total, 4.0 qts service refill |
The A904 uses a front (intermediate) band for 2nd gear. Band wear and adjustment is the most common A904 maintenance item. Annual adjustment prevents premature slipping.
Symptoms: Slipping in 2nd gear; RPM flare on 1-2 upshift; band adjustment screw loose
The rear (low/reverse) band also requires periodic adjustment. Neglected rear band causes slipping in Reverse and manual 1st.
Symptoms: Slip or no Reverse; slipping in manual 1st gear hold
The kickdown valve in the valve body can stick with age and contaminated fluid, preventing full-throttle downshifts.
Symptoms: No downshift under hard acceleration; transmission stays in current gear at full throttle
Full disassembly. Front and rear bands replaced and adjusted. All clutch packs replaced with new Alto frictions. Valve body ultrasonically cleaned and rebuilt. Kickdown valve freed and polished. Full Transtec soft parts kit. Converter flushed.
ATF+4 every 30,000 miles. Adjust both bands every service — the A904 has two external adjustment screws. Annual band adjustment costs nothing and prevents expensive clutch wear.
The A904 (also called 30RH or TorqueFlite) was the light-duty Chrysler automatic from 1960 to 1999. Behind slant-6 and small V8s in compact cars, early Jeep Wrangler/CJ, and a wide range of Mopar applications.
Two external screws on the transmission case. Tighten to 72 in-lbs, back off 2 turns (front band) and 4 turns (rear band). Mark the adjustment before tightening. We perform this free with every fluid service.
Modern recommendation is Mopar ATF+4. Classic restorations may use Dexron or Type F depending on the era. ATF+4 is compatible with all A904 seals.
Barely at stock power — the A904 is light duty. For higher-torque builds, upgrade to the A727. With a shift kit and upgraded clutch packs, the A904 handles 300 hp in mild applications.
$1,100–1,600. 2-day turnaround.
Free diagnostic, written estimate, lifetime warranty. Chicago's A904 rebuild specialists since 1987.
