2nd Gen. Dodge Ram - No Drivetrain Discussion for all Dodge Rams from 1994 through 2002. Please, no engine or drivetrain discussion.

any 96-98 owners

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Old Jun 24, 2005 | 10:57 PM
  #1  
rebal's Avatar
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From: Yuba city Kalifornia
Question any 96-98 owners

im looking to buy another truck for the barn should i buy a auto or 5spd and one have trouble with there auto trannys??
Thanks Rebel
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Old Jun 24, 2005 | 11:06 PM
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From: Iola, Tx.
I would go with the 5spd. That's just my opinion, I think the 5spd is a little stronger, less to worry about, just make sure you get that 5th gear nut fixed if you go with the 5spd.
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Old Jun 25, 2005 | 09:52 AM
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From: outside of Duluth MN
If memory serves me right, the 5 speed is a 215 hp engine and the auto is a 185 hp engine. If you plan on using the truck to go fast then find an auto and get ahold of Goerends Brothers or DTT.
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Old Jun 25, 2005 | 10:23 AM
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From: Iola, Tx.
MnTom, what are saying, a 5spd doesn't go fast?
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Old Jun 25, 2005 | 10:31 AM
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5 speeds do go fast but i agree if i was going to reace something i would build a good auto.
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Old Jun 25, 2005 | 01:45 PM
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From: outside of Duluth MN
No, I am not saying the 5 speeds don't go fast. You need to understand that an auto tranny is capable of achieving the higher speed faster due to the simple fact that the tranny can and will shift much faster than you are capable of, therefore in more demand for any kind of racing.
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Old Jun 25, 2005 | 06:49 PM
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From: Derry, NH
5 speed for haulin and auto for dragging. I myself believe that autos are better for dragging. There is no chance of human error versus the manual ( short shifts or missed gears) although it is more of a challenge. You will get very consistent ET's with the auto all day long, although you can do the same with the hand shaker if you are good at it draggin w/ manual.
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Old Jun 25, 2005 | 06:49 PM
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From: Laredo
Five speed

higher HP pump, fun to drive, PULLING MACHINES! I wouldnt suggest it for racing unless ur really good with a manual... But it all comes down to preference, and what ur gonna use it for.. I like my manny for towing, and for fuel economy, plus is sounds wicked on straights, as well, as an added bonus!

Tx
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Old Jun 25, 2005 | 10:59 PM
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From: Northern Iowa
5-speed is my choice, as my sig suggests. However the autos are much easier to find, and in fact today I helped a couple I know buy and automatic regular cab '95 with 130k on it for a very reasonable price. They are out there, drive both, go with your preferance. If it's an auto remember to hit the O/D off switch when driving around town. I will say after driving thier automatic that the acceleration is soooo much smoother than with my 5-speed.
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Old Jun 25, 2005 | 11:40 PM
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I have kinda had this tickle to get me an auto. I think they are neat. 5 speed was my obvious first choice, but i think those auto just sound kinda neat. I think it would be 2 wheel drive too. OHH i like the rides of them. My friend just lowered his and got 20"s for it.

I think it is kinda neat everyone around here has 4x4's and lifted. Just something different for a change.
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Old Jun 26, 2005 | 12:14 AM
  #11  
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An added bonus with the manual trucks is the Dana 80 rear end.
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Old Jun 26, 2005 | 07:15 AM
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My truck has a D80.

I love my Goerend tranny, but prefer a handshaker myself.
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