Hello all!
In the spring I will be looking for a new or new used truck.
I am looking for a 2500 quad cab 4x4. I will be using it to tow a travel trailer about 31' and about 9600 pounds loaded. My question to you all is would I be better off with a standard or auto. I do not mind driving either or, but am more interested in which tranny will be less problems. I have heard that the older 2nd gens had troubles...

Wanted your advice, thanks!

 

Well....you pretty much can't go wrong with the 6 speed if you don't mind driving a stick. However, even though they're not really proven yet, the 48RE transmission has been pretty bullet proof so far. I don't think you can really go wrong with either one....but it will also depend on what you plan to use the truck for. If you're going to be pulling a lot I'd recommend the 6 speed. If not, I'd probably say go with the auto.

 

[quote author=Hoss link=board=20;threadid=21229;start=0#msg199251 date=1066744798]
Well....you pretty much can't go wrong with the 6 speed if you don't mind driving a stick. However, even though they're not really proven yet, the 48RE transmission has been pretty bullet proof so far. I don't think you can really go wrong with either one....but it will also depend on what you plan to use the truck for. If you're going to be pulling a lot I'd recommend the 6 speed. If not, I'd probably say go with the auto.
[/quote]

What Hoss said.

I tow my 32' tt (about 8800# loaded)with a 48re and it has been great. A six speed is better but the auto can handle it to. I think the concern generally with the auto is the torque converter and not so much the tranny. Like Hoss said, you cant go wrong either way.

Goat

 

I have the auto but dont tow near as much as I drive otherwise. When I tow, not above 7000lbs so really the auto was the way to go (aside from reliability concerns which are absent to date).

The manual was far too much shifting for little benefit but is almost certainly the way to go if you tow a lot, heavy, wish to have an exhaust brake (under warrenty if not getting an 04 48RE) or are going to be increasing HP significantly.

 

I have a 5th wheel trailer weighing in at 8300 # dry. Add 1000-1200 likely loaded. I've pulled this trailer with my 2001 2500 HO 6 sp and my new 2003 3500 HO 48RE. Both had 4.10 gears. While I still think the manual is bullet proof I've had great luck with the auto and the trailer. I also had pulled this trailer with my 99 2500 SO 47RE and the 48 RE is better hands down in the shifting program. Only time will tell on how good the 48 RE will stand up but I have no reason to doubt it.

Overall I like pulling with the auto better (now that I have one that I works well). There are situations where you're stopped on a steep upgrade at a stop light. I much prefer pulling away with the auto than the stick.

Like the others said both are good bets but my preference goes to the 48RE now.

 

If your gonna tow a lot, get the 6.

 

I hope that the 48RE holds up but until someone has 100k or more on it towing with no probs I wouldn't call them reliable. Drive both (for a good half day I would say) and then make your choice. Best of luck. Watch out for Hoss.......

 

I will never again buy a truck with an automatic trans. for towing. I had a 95 CTD 2500 that I pulled a 32' TT with. A big mistake. VERY dis-satisfied. Get the 6 speed. Much more reliable, stronger and just better for towing -- ANY size load.

I sold the truck and bought my 6 speed dually only because of the transmission. Am very happy with my 6 speed. ;D

 

http://galebanks.com/sidewinder-gear_system.cfm

Six speed.

 

[quote author=MNISB link=board=20;threadid=21229;start=0#msg199935 date=1066862798]
http://galebanks.com/sidewinder-gear_system.cfm

Six speed.


[/quote]

Cool... 8)

 

I noticed the 48RE has a "tow/haul" button. Any insight in what this does? Just changes the shift points? Or engine braking functions as well?

 

When I test drove an '04 HO with 48RE, the tow/haul button seemed to lockout OD. I am sure it increases pressure as well, but it locked out OD on the truck I drove.