Based on the data, the K1 snap rings have failed in both towing and non towing scenarios, in all sorts of varying conditions. So I take that as, if you have a bad snap ring, it’s going to show up. The only factor is “when”, in terms of mileage before failure.
I have a very knowledgeable contact on the Aisin. I have been assured the snap ring is the causal factor in the failure. I have also been told that, if you want to increase the likelihood that the snap ring will fail, the use of Tow / Haul will very likely make the flawed snap ring rear it’s ugly head sooner. As it was described to me, activating Tow / Haul increases the ramp rate and aggressiveness of the apply clutch. I’m assuming this means the added forcefulness of the clutch can cause the snap ring to pop out sooner.
That being said, you should be running tow / haul anytime you are loaded or towing as it completely changes how the truck shifts, downshifts, etc.
This snap ring problem is inescapable. Trying to drive it softly will not make the problem go away. If the snap ring in your truck is a flawed one, it’s going to fail. Only a question of when. At this point, given all the data and information I have gathered over the past 8 months of researching and documenting, my approach and advice would be to drive the truck as it is intended to be driven, with the understanding that it may fail. Have a contingency plan in place, and make sure you have trailer towing assistance / insurance as part of what you do. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst, and drive the truck you paid for. When / if it eventually does fail, at least you will have a ton of foresight into this issue and can make appropriate steps to get the truck to a competent dealer and have it rectified.
As much as it pains me to say it, it’s up to us owners to figure this all out and have a plan in place. Ram isn’t reaching out to customers to let them know if their truck may be affected and there’s no sign of a recall in sight. This eventuality was the underlying reason why I started my research, documentation, and these threads here and elsewhere. I will continue to do so, in the hopes that it will ultimately keep others from getting into bad situations.
(he says right after getting off of the exercise bike...)
