why are dodge transmissions labeled as crap(no offence)

Mopar got it's bad rap with the early 4spd overdrive automatics in mini vans in the 80's and early 90's, they were prone to failure. The very first A500's used in pickups also had issues with lubrication to the OD unit on the back of the tranny that resulted in failures. Since the mid 90's mopar trannies have been as good as anyone's out there.

The 45RFE that is behind the 4.7 is as good as anyone's tranny.

I had an 89 Dakota with an A500 that I put 256,000 miles on. Only tranny issue I had was a rusted out cooler line that when I repaired I moved the line enough during the repair that it rubbed on the kick down rod and it shiffted funny until I realized what I had down. I am currently driving a 99 Dakota with a 42RE tranny that has been totally trouble free for 125,000 miles and my wifes 03 turbo PT cruiser has almost 50k miles with lots of spirited driving and the tranny has been perfect.