Allison 1000 Transmission
The Allison 1000 was built in 5 & 6 speed versions, the latter introduced in 2005. Though not without its weaknesses, the Allison is built on a strong foundation and a popular transmission amongst diesel truck owners.
Allison 1000 Gear Ratios:
| 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | 6th* | R |
| 3.10 | 1.81 | 1.41 | 1.00 | 0.71 | 0.61 | 4.49 |
*6th gear is only found on 2006-present Allison 1000 transmissions. 2001-2005 Allison equipped trucks had 5-speeds.
Allison 1000 Specs:
| Name: | Allison 1000 |
| Production Plant: | White Marsh, Maryland |
| Applications: | - light/medium duty diesel trucks. - All Duramax diesel equipped Chevrolet/GMC trucks. |
| Production Years: | - First produced in 1999. - Produced for Duramax applications 2001 - present. |
| Speeds: | - 2001 - 2005 : 5 speeds - 2006 - present: 6 speeds |
| Weight: | 330 lbs (w/ PTO option) |
| Max Input RPM: | 5,000 RPM |
| ATF Requirements: | Dexron-III ATF |
Allison 1000 Features:
- External filter eliminates need to change internal filter until overhaul is performed.
- PTO optoinal in 3500 GMC/Chevrolet trucks.
- 2 overdrive gears for better fuel economy. At 60 mph, the 6-speed Allison equipped truck cruises at 1,550 RPM (compared to the 5-speed versions 1,800 RPM engine speed at 60 mph)
- Adaptive learning technology links transmission to engine TCM. Users driver input to calculate & create ideal shift strategies.
- Limp mode locks transmission in 3rd gear if rapid or excess transmission occurs, allowing vehicle to safely brought to service station as soon as possible.
- Tow/Haul mode for enhanced trailer braking control.
- Cold operation mode that allows the engine to rev higher until the engine & transmission have reached ideal operating temperature.
- Torque converter locks for gears 3 - 6. Gears 1 & 2 operate in both locked & unlocked torque converter modes.
- Input Torque capacties:
- 2001 to 2005 : 520 lb-ft
- 2005 : 565 lb-ft
- 2006 to 2007: 650 lb-ft
- 2008 to 2009: 660 lb-ft
- 2010 to present: 750 lb-ft
Allison 1000 Strengths & Weaknesses:
| Strengths: | - Component strength; components robust size allows transmission to manage large quantities of torque. - Dual overdrive ratios allow for decreased operating RPM & increased fuel economy. |
| Weaknesses: | - Insufficient C3 clutch lubrication. The C3 clutch is only lubricated when it is engaged. Can lead to premature failure of this particular clutch. - C1 & C2 clutch pistons engage clutches from the side (off-center), causing uneven pressure & wear. |

