4x4 Transfer Case flash update for 2016-2020 for trucks built on or before June 14 2020

[Epsilon Plus]

https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10183078-9999.pdf

The customer may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination. Upon further investigation the technician may find the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) has been set:: NOTE: If the customer has any concerns with the transfer case or if the tech performs any repairs on the transfer case, the software must be updated. • C140E - Transfer Case Motor Blocked. NOTE: If DTC C140E is present, follow normal diagnostic procedures before updating the DTCM. In addition the customer may describe the following: • The “Service 4WD” message/fault is displayed in the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). • Transfer case shift fork tabs broken during range shift. • Noisy (clunking/ratcheting) transfer case range shifts. • Failure to complete transfer case range shifts. The following software enhancement is available: • This update will help reduce premature transfer case failure

Sounds like something to have done next time you are at the dealer. The wording suggests a problem need not be present first and that this update will help reduce premature failure.

 

[M6805]

https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/tsbs/2020/MC-10183078-9999.pdf

The customer may experience a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination. Upon further investigation the technician may find the following Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) has been set:: NOTE: If the customer has any concerns with the transfer case or if the tech performs any repairs on the transfer case, the software must be updated. • C140E - Transfer Case Motor Blocked. NOTE: If DTC C140E is present, follow normal diagnostic procedures before updating the DTCM. In addition the customer may describe the following: • The “Service 4WD” message/fault is displayed in the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). • Transfer case shift fork tabs broken during range shift. • Noisy (clunking/ratcheting) transfer case range shifts. • Failure to complete transfer case range shifts. The following software enhancement is available: • This update will help reduce premature transfer case failure

Sounds like something to have done next time you are at the dealer. The wording suggests a problem need not be present first and that this update will help reduce premature failure.

I had a 2016 RAM 2500 Laramie with the Cummins 6.7L 4x4 at about 47,750 Miles (25 May 2019) while driving on the extremely rough roads around Joliet Illinois (towing an 8K+ pounds TT) a sudden growling from the transfer case area and the "4WdServ" light illuminated. After several cycles of the transfer case (all ranges) the light went out.
Fast forward to Sep-2020 and I have a 2018 RAM 3500 Laramie with the Cummins 6.7L 4x4 at about 13,500 miles (15 Sep 2020) while driving near Grand Junction Colorado (towing an 9K+ pounds TT) a sudden "4wdServ" followed by a full screen warning to have 4WD serviced. I was able to pull over, kill engine, and restart without further warnings.
Both instances while driving long distances from home (Blaine Washington) I took each truck to a RAM Dealer for warranty work . . ..both times the Error codes pointed towards "Front Axle Disconnect Actuator PN 68216944AA.
Once the actuator was replaced (in each truck) error does NOT reappear.
Has anyone else experienced this . . . .and watch for error light!