I have an '01 CTD right now, and am pretty unhappy with the tranmission. Namely, it sucks. It doesn't put the power to the ground, and all I have is a basic chip. This was recently demonstrated when I tried to scoot through an opening in traffic, and ended up with a slow-starting truck while the engine reved at 3k. I figure an aftermarket torque converter and valve body would solve the problem, but then I still have the injection pump to worry about, carry a spare fuel pump, crappy steering...

So I've been looking at 3rd gens. From what I've heard the 48RE solved most of the complaints of the 47RE. How much power can you add to the 48RE w/out problems? No plans to go beyond a chip right now. If I can talk my wife into it, I'd like to get a manual. Do they need any upgrades to stand up to modest power increases?

I've heard about the nice steering and ride in the 4x2 3rd gens...does that apply to the 4x4s as well? (a necessity for me).

Thanks again all. You're always great.

 

So just for kicks I went to the local dealer and test drove an '05. Auto, supercab short bed 4x4. With 325hp and 600ft-lb of torque I expected this thing to be a rocket. Well, I was unimpressed. I felt that it might have been somewhat faster than my truck, but it didn't blow my socks off like I expected. I assume that I won't get that reaction until I drive a chipped or otherwise modded 3rd gen. The tranny was better, but again, I wasn't super impressed.

I read from someone that on their first 3rd gen test drive they were all over the road. I definitely was! It took me about 10 miles to get used to the faster, more responsive steering. After that, it was much much nicer than the 2nd gen. The ride was also nice and smooth. Speed bumps didn't rattle my spine. The ride was almost as nice as a nice car. Which my wife would love, but I'm on the fence. I like my trucks to be trucks. At least, I say that, until the next time I have to drive one cross-country.

Next plan is to drive a manual 3rd gen (never had the opportunity). Nowever, based on my observations today, unless the manual compliments the engine in a big way, I'm going to stick with my current truck, and put in an aftermarket torque converter and valve body one of these days.