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8AP TorqueFlite 8-Speed Automatic Transmission
First to Market
2025 RAM HD 8-SPEED RETROFIT CONVERSION
For 2007.5–2024 Ram 2500/3500 Cummins Trucks
The question keeps coming up: "Can I retrofit the new 8AP 8-speed transmission into my older Ram truck?" The short answer is yes—but it's complicated and expensive. We'll help you understand what's involved and whether it's the right choice for you.
8
Forward Speeds
1,075
LB-FT Torque Rated
2025
Ram HD Technology
Let's Talk About the 2025 Ram HD 8-Speed
The new 2025 RAM 2500/3500 8-speed automatic (commonly referred to as the 8AP, Powerline, or TorqueFlite HD 8-speed) represents a significant step forward for the RAM pickup segment. It modernizes RAM's transmission offerings for diesel models, delivering increased towing capacity, improved efficiency, and better drive smoothness.
This transmission is specifically paired with the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel engine, including both the standard and high-output variants. It replaces the older 6-speed automatics, delivering improved drivability, towing performance, and efficiency.
Here's the thing: The super low 1st gear ratio is only utilized when tow-haul mode is selected, making the transmission more like a 7-speed than an 8-speed in daily driving. And 8th gear offers an overdrive ratio that's about the same as the 68-RFE, Aisin 69RC, and the Allison LCT-1000 6th gear—so there's really little to no improvement in economy with the 8-speed transmission.
Key Features
What the 8AP Offers
8 Forward Speeds
Wider ratio spread than the previous 6-speed. First gear is only used during tow-haul mode—effectively making this a 7-speed with a "granny gear" for heavy loads.
Closer Gear Steps
Smooth, closely spaced gear steps improve acceleration and towing response with smaller RPM drops between shifts.
Lockup Torque Converter
Wide lockup availability for improved efficiency and thermal control under heavy loads.
1,075 LB-FT Capacity
Stronger internals designed to withstand the Cummins HO torque output. Built for heavy-duty diesel applications.
100% Fly-By-Wire
No mechanical shift cables—all transmission ranges and gears are transmitted via high-speed CAN data. This is where things get complicated for retrofits.
Lower Highway RPMs
Taller overdrive gears reduce engine noise and wear during highway cruising—though the benefit over a 6-speed Allison is minimal.
Technical Specs
Gear Ratios & Details
8AP Gear Ratios
1st Gear (Tow-Haul Only) 4.71
2nd Gear 3.14
3rd Gear 2.10
4th Gear 1.67
5th Gear 1.29
6th Gear 1.00
7th Gear 0.84
8th Gear (Overdrive) 0.64
Reverse 3.30
Note: 1st gear is really too low for daily driving—the 8AP normally starts in 2nd gear unless tow-haul mode is engaged. For practical purposes, this aligns more with a 7-speed transmission with a "granny gear."
The Control Challenge
The 8AP is 100% fly-by-wire with no mechanical shift cables. It uses HD CAN communication—a newer version loaded with additional vehicle security measures. We've spent 5+ years building out the data groups and algorithms to control ZF 8-speed transmissions. That experience gave us a huge head start on the 8AP.
Vehicle Integration
Starting in 2007.5, all Ram trucks require their companion modules on the CAN network. Remove the TCM and the engine won't start—cruise control, ABS, instrument cluster, and 15+ other systems stop working. Our TRANSlator module bridges this gap completely.
Factory Functions Preserved
Push-button start, cruise control, tow-haul mode, tap shift, electronic range select, transfer case functionality, and exhaust brake all work with our system. No fabricating, no endless tuning hacks. Plug, play, and drive.
Comparison
What's the Most Sensible Upgrade?
Based on the information we have today, the most practical and cost-effective decision for most owners is the ATS Allison LCT-1000 6-speed. But if money is no object and you want the latest technology, the 8AP is an option. Here's how they compare:
| Feature | ATS 68RFE / AS69RC | ATS Allison Conversion | ATS 8AP Swap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forward Speeds | 6 | 6 | 8 (7 in daily use) |
| Top Gear Ratio | 0.63 | 0.61 | 0.64 |
| Torque Capacity | Limited | 1,700+ lb-ft | 1,075 lb-ft |
| Track Record | 19+ Years Proven | 22+ Years Proven | Brand New (Unknown) |
| Aftermarket Support | Extensive | Extensive | Limited (New Platform) |
| Starting Price | From $8,345 | ~$12,580 | ~$17,700 – $27,500 |
| Availability | What You Have Now | Available Now | Available from ATS |
Both ATS conversions use our proprietary TRANSlator technology for complete factory integration.
The Bottom Line
ATS Allison Conversion — The Smart Choice
The Allison LCT-1000 was originally designed for medium-duty applications where extreme load and high torque demands were expected. Over 18 years of production and development, this platform has been refined to handle incredible torque and engineered to be the most reliable transmission the light-duty truck market has ever seen.
- Proven reliability over 18+ years
- Extensive aftermarket support
- Handles power levels well over stock
- Half the cost of the 8AP swap
- Available now with 5-year warranty
ATS 8AP Swap — The Technology Choice
If money is no object and you want the very best technology available today, the 2025 8AP transmission is an option. It's a revolutionary transmission that sets the standard for the future—but it's expensive and still new to the market.
- Latest 2025 OEM technology
- 8 speeds with closer ratios
- Smaller RPM drops between shifts
- Unknown high-mileage failure points
- Limited aftermarket parts (for now)
If you tow heavy, run big power, or simply want reliability above all else, the Allison swap is the smart investment. It costs a little more than a rebuilt 68RFE but pays dividends in durability, performance, and peace of mind—making it the true best choice for Cummins owners. The 8AP represents the future, but only time will tell what the higher mileage and higher power levels will reveal.
8AP Swap Pricing
What Does It Cost?
The 8AP swap requires sourcing multiple components. Here's the breakdown of what you'll need and what it costs:
Required Components
8AP Transmission (New from RAM) ~$14,000
8AP Transmission (Used, if available) $6,000–$9,000
Transfer Case (New) ~$3,450
Transfer Case Rebuild (2019+ trucks) ~$2,000
ATS TRANSlator + Wiring Harness $4,100
ATS Billet Adapter Plate $995
ATS Billet Flexplate $895
ATS Cooler Line Kit $800
Driveline Modifications ~$1,500
Misc (crossmember, mount, brackets) ~$800
Shop Labor (estimated) ~$2,800
All New Parts
~$27,500
Factory warranty on new transmission
Mix of New & Used
~$17,700
No warranty on used components
FAQ
Common Questions
What trucks can use the 8AP swap?
The ATS 8AP conversion works on 2007.5–2024 Ram 2500/3500 trucks with the 6.7L Cummins. Both 68RFE and Aisin 69RC equipped trucks are supported. For trucks older than 2019, you'll need a new or used transfer case. 2019+ trucks can rebuild their existing T-case.
Why is the Allison half the price?
The Allison has been around for 22+ years with established supply chains and aftermarket support. The 8AP is brand new—transmissions are expensive, used units are rare, and there's limited aftermarket development yet. Over the next 5–8 years, costs will come down.
Is the fuel savings worth it?
Assuming ~12 mpg for the Allison and ~13 mpg for the 8AP at $3.50/gallon diesel, you'd save about $2,244 over 100,000 miles. That makes it hard to justify spending an extra $10,000+ for the 8-speed upgrade based on fuel alone.
What about reliability?
The 8AP is a larger version of the 8HP transmission that's been proven behind gasoline engines for 10 years. But there are known 8HP failures that will likely resurface in the 8AP. We'll find the weak points over time—until then, the Allison's track record is unmatched.
Will my factory functions still work?
Yes. With ATS's TRANSlator module, both the Allison and 8AP integrate like factory-installed. Push-button start, cruise control, tow-haul, tap shift, electronic range select, transfer case functionality, and exhaust brake are all preserved.
What about trucks older than 2018?
For trucks older than 2018, there's currently no option to bolt up the older transfer case to the 8AP transmission. You'll need a new or used transfer case from a 2019+ truck, adding to the cost.
Interested in the 8AP Swap?
The 8AP represents the future in transmission technology. If you want the latest and greatest—and budget isn't your primary concern—get on our list to receive updates on availability, pricing, and development progress.
