As previously mentioned, if you don't know what you want I'd suggest getting an auto. For me there was no question, I like a manual, but friends and coworkers have opted for an auto. They tow and don't have any complaints. One friend looked into how much it'd cost for an auto to be 'bulletproof', and views any failures with the auto as an excuse to upgrade.

An observation that I've made regarding autos is that many seem to use 'torque management', where they'll defuel in order to minimize peak loads on the tranny. The vaunted Allison evidently defuels in 1st, 5th, and in other modes. As a consequence I've read stories in this forum of people with older trucks that had a stick that were able to move heavier than rated loads that other new trucks with autos (Fords) couldn't budge. It's possible then that you can handle heavier loads with a stick than with an auto. I've asked about the ability of the current trucks, Dodges included, to handle starting and stopping max loads on steep grades compared to a stick, like a big trailer in the mountains waiting for an accident, work crew ,etc., as any torque management calibrated for level ground at sea level could have a lower output on a grade at altitude. I've not had any replies though.

 

Since 1976 I drove sticks exclusively until I bought this truck. I recommend you drive both the auto and stick before you buy. I found that I could not tolerate the slow shifting and feeling of the truck running away with me in high gear going down a slight slope. I have been known to rarely punch it getting on the interstate and passing on 2-lane roads. The auto is much faster getting up to speed. I don’t tow anything heaver than my duck boat and utility trailers. My buddy tows a large 5th wheel camper with the auto and has no problems what so ever.

 

If you want to get through an intersection the same day you entered, get an auto.

The only advantage to the six speed is power upgrades and towing very heavy (15k +). I pull a 10k toyhauler and will keep up with the six speed all day.

 

I say 6 spd. Install a short shift and youll be good to go. Ive had two now, and I love em. Id rather swap a clutch than a tranny

 

Get the Automatic

 

6 speeds aren't that slow... start in 2nd gear when you are unloaded. I've even started in 3rd with a little RPM built up, pop the clutch and go. I'd like to see an auto with the same mods keep up.

 

If you are getting the truck to use as a truck the auto will be fine.I drove both before i got mine and just too much rowing with them gears for me.I took off from a stop sign made the corner and by the time i had it straightend out i was in 4th.And as far as you having to get the auto rebult right away thats bs.You dont see alot of people having to rebulld the 48re right away.Maybe the 47re I dont know about it.

 

I have both, manual and auto. My wife and I drive the auto 90% of the time it is easy to drive in town. The manual does controls heavy trailers better. Can't say much on tranny life 25,000 the manual and 10,000 on the auto.

 

See my sigs.

Well, I use my 48RE Off Road on the ranch everyday pulling 16K goosenecks in 4 x 4 low.

The past 40 years I've owned them both. Personally, after working with the 48RE, I wouldn't go back to a manual box nor a manual transfer case either.

 

I would say it depends alot on your feelings, how much of a motorhead are you? the more you are the more you are going to want a 6, all about control, if you want to just go up that hill not wait for the tranny to figure out which gear it needs type of thing. Also as mentioned a lot has to do with how much mpg is important to you. the auto will get lower results no if ands or butts about it. The other thing to considder is how old are ya? how fit? this truck is going to be here for a while, ten years easy. Do you see yourself enjoying a stick as much ten years from now? If that comes into considderation down the road think about this, buying a new one and starting all over again, all that customizing gone.