Engine/transmission for Freightliner MT45 step van?

[2000ram2500]

If you were going to replace the engine and transmission in a Freightliner MT45 step van, whay would you choose, and why?

 

[Bill Lins]

What year is it & what engine & trans does it have now?

 

[2000ram2500]

What year is it & what engine & trans does it have now?

It is a 2002 with an automatic transmission.

 

[Wayne M.]

What engine does it have now? Could be any of a few- gas or Diesel. If it has a 5.9, can't go wrong with perfection.

 

[2000ram2500]

What engine does it have now? Could be any of a few- gas or Diesel. If it has a 5.9, can't go wrong with perfection.

I has a 5.9 with over 250,000 miles. So I am sort of thinking ahead. I guess my questions is more specifically, would there be a great advantage moving up to the six-speed automatic transmission and a newer engine?

 

[Wayne M.]

Do you know what transmission you have now? Shifter or keypad? Got pictures? It's probably a 5 speed Allison world unit. Regarding the engine, it should be the 5.9 with The electronically controlled mechanical pump. They have their shortcomings, but anything newer also has em too.
My hip shot response is to stick with what you have. It's a desirable, hard to beat combo.