So my 42rle transmission is finally on its last leg. I’ve had issues keeping it cool over the last year, and it’s finally starting to slip in overdrive. So now I’m trying to decide if it’s worth the extra $2k-ish to go with a stage 1 ATS built trans, or just have the stock one rebuilt. Thoughts?

FYI;
2011 JKU Sport 3.8 auto
37s
UD44 front and 5.13 gears F/R
other supporting mods
wheeled, but not “sent”

 

HI, the 1st question that comes to mind.. how many miles did the OE #1 go? There are many REMAN units for sale by many companies.. take a look at Certified Transmissions. Good REMAN units with a 3yr/100,000 mile parts and labor warranty..good prices too. A MOPAR REMAN would be a good choice too, 3yr/100,000 mile Parts and Labor warranty.

 

nearly 150k on the original trans.
after a few calls today, it looks like I might be SOL on the ATS trans, so I found a shop that will rebuild the OE one. So now the question is, should I have them do any upgrades while they are in there? Different torque converter? Clutch packs? Pump? Anything like that? I’m not super concerned about cost, just want something that will last.

 

If you trust the shop they may be able to give you the best advice. I would think better clutch packs and a slightly higher clutch pressures can only be helpful while 4 wheeling. Not too harsh though as hard shifts can be tiresome on the street.
If it were me I would be looking to see if a 1st gear ratio being higher is available for that crawling mode.