Other than clearing the floor, is there any advantage to ordering the "electronic shift" transfer case? Any disadvantages? Are the hubs the same and how do they work. I've always had manual hubs and transfer cases.

Thanks, Rick

 

I'm not 100% sure, but I don't there are any locking hubs or axle disconnect on the newer Rams. The front axle is always spinning, as is the front drive shaft.

 

RickE,

There are no hubs, the front axles are always turning, with either transfer case. I went with the manual because I thought it would be more reliable in the long run, when it's time to engage I don't want any question. Who knows, that electric system may outlast everything else but I feel better with the floor shift.

Wetspirit

 

RickE,

I forgot to ask, are you ordering soon? If so tell us about the engine specs. Are you ordering after the first of the year or before? I'm sure you know that the HO is not available in California now but may be after the first. Hmmm. I'm in the Bay Area too.

Wetspirit

 

Ditto to the above. I went manual because of the possibility of problems with the electric/electronic system later. Also it is easier to diagnose a problem with the manual than the other.

 

I have the Manual Shift on mine too. Like others said, the electronic shift is just one more thing that could go wrong. I also like the fact that the front axles (hubs) are always locked because the 4x4 will engage instantly.

 

I got electronic, had it on past two vehicles for more than 100k with no probs. Went for it again because I like having no shifter on the floor, that extra floor space is nice to have. Plus then you can get cool 1 piece catch all xtreme mats ;D

 

I've been really pleased with my manual transfer case. Asthetics wise, I'd rather see the electronic transfer case go with the automatics, but for the 6-speeders, I really like the manual 'case. I was up on a mountain pass a few weeks ago and found the road conditions changing a lot. So there I was, going in and out of 4H/2H at well, in speeds up up to 55 mph just like the manual says. it just works, thats all. thats all there is to be said!

just personal preference: I'd rather rest my arm on a shift lever, when going in and out, than hold my hand up to the dash to push a button.

In terms of reliability, its interesting to note that the only probs I've heard of were associated with early versions of the manual. From all accounts, those have been solved. you should make your decision based on preference, as I don't see any reliability difference.

 

Just as an FYI, sorta unrelated, but maybe you'll see the connection. Mercury Marine now has a Digital Throttle and Shift setup for their higher end outboards and some inboards. One benefit is easier control routing, wires instead of cables. But the other benefit, which helps offset some of the cost of the electronics, is lower warranty repair bills. The electronic system won't allow gear changes when they aren't supposed to happen. It waits for the RPM's to drop before reverse can be engaged, for example. In this application this is supposed to lengthen the life of the equipment and improve shift quality at the same time.

Not that a transfer case lever is that hard to operate, but a potential benefit of the electronic setup might be preventing operator error. Depends on who all drives the truck I guess.

 

Wetspirit, I notice that you have an HO and you live in Calif. How did you do that? I've been thinking of all kinds of skeems to get an HO with 6sp. My current plan is to wait for the 50 state HO and order exactly what I want. I live in Danville, where are you?

Preliminary specs:
2004 2500 Ram regular cab SLT 4X4 LWB (Got to have 8' bed and park in garage)
CTD HO, 6sp
Man xfer case
3.73 LSD
Protection group
Trailer tow grp
Trailer tow mirrors
Fog lights
Light grp
Engine block heater
Body side mouldings
Standard radio, I guess. Would like cassette and CD , but $750...
Premium cloth seat (pwr)
Leather steering wheel?
Aluminum wheels
Sliding rear window
Side air bags?
White/Taupe

Any suggestions or comments are welcome. I want to do this right.

 

If I was getting a stickshift I would absolutely get the the manual shift transfer case. I should have noted I have an auto and have the whole floor free...

 

I have the electric shift on the fly and wouldn't ever go back. I had a '96 with the manual shift and it was sometimes a real pain to get into and out of 4x4. The new system lets me turn the **** and keep both hands on the wheel in slick conditions.

I wouldn't worry any more about the electric motor failing than I would about the manual's shift linkage failing.

 

RickE,

I'm in Redwood City part time and Turlock part time. I got my HO (almost identical to your list, except auto) in Carson City and registered it in Nevada. Very happy I did.
Mine is white and std cab too, love it.
Hope you get yours soon so you can get on with life.

Wetspirit

 

[quote author=Lightman link=board=20;threadid=23388;start=0#msg220162 date=1070902994]
Went for it again because I like having no shifter on the floor, that extra floor space is nice to have. Plus then you can get cool 1 piece catch all xtreme mats ;D
[/quote]

I'm getting the "Nifty Extreme" one-piece front and rear mats for a Christmas Present! ;D ;D