Hello there, I am looking for some opinions on the automatic vs the 6 speed. Currently I have a 96 with a 5 speed, I've heard that the automatics have improved a lot since back when my truck was new. I've driven both the 6 speed and the new automatic (both 2004) but I haven't had an opportunity to tow with either. I tow a 5th wheel weighing around 12k. My truck now has a cummins E-brake on it which I love and think I'll miss if I were to go to an automatic but I really enjoyed the get up and go of the auto and didn't miss shifting too much. I'm especially interested in any comments any of you that drive the automatics and tow a heavy load.

Thanks in advance for your comments
George & Cheryl

 

I didn't think I had any interest in an automatic, but after salesmen at five different dealerships told me I'd like it, I test drove it, and then bought it. My "heavy load" isn't really that heavy...just my boat, but I can tell you the automatic handles the load beautifully, and so far I'm sure happy with it.

 

From what I've seen (TDR article, posts here), the new "600" and 48RE combo will be e-brake compatable.

 

Think it's a question of usage. If you tow a lot (over 40,000 miles yearly) then the manual is the only way to go. If you drive a lot, tow a little and have much in-town use, then the automatic is the ticket.

 

Thanks for the reply

 

go with the six shooter, its alot of shiftin but i love mine

 

That who be the ONE thing I'd change if I did it again. I"D GET THE MANUAL, AUTO SUCKS!
This must be one fine ride to drive manually

 

The auto sucks? Those are some pretty strong words LOL I drove one yesterday just over a 100 miles delivering it to Utah, it was a joy to drive, it was quick and when I stepped on it....it was gone but it was a 2500 short bed with the 3.73 rear end. Do you tow anything with yours?

 

I have the same setup, andIT DOES NOT SUCK!! thats a little strong advice to give. maybe he got a bad one, cuz if you ask around , most poeple are extremely happy with there`s ]


I tow a 6,000lb TT and it drives like a dream. Last summer i towed all over the PA. mountains, and i was passing cars going up hill. I left her in OD, and let her do her thing.


However i do NOT tow alot, and she is my daily driver. there was noway i was gonna get the stick, only to sit in NY traffic everyday.

One other thing to think of is if you plan to get 4WD. One place i do tow , is the SANDY beaches.If i had the stick, i would just dig a hole every time i let the clutch out Ever try to back a camper into the sand with a stick? Its not that easy.

nAnyway, goodluck with your purchase, you cant lose either way

 

Really it is a matter of preference. The 48 is still new, not many people with any actual mileage on them yet. Anything will last for 20 or 30k, but will they last for 150 or so?? Only time will tell. The 6spd has been around that long so I could say it will hold together. Hopefully the 48's will be fine also.

 

I agree with DodgeDude361. I pass cars with ease while pulling my boat up passes on Colorado mountain highways. Sure happy with the auto so far.

 

I got the 6 just cuz I like to shift em, but my last truck was a slush box and I never had a problem with it. I say get what you want....................you are the one who has to make the payment and drive it everyday.............

 

I plan to tow with my truck and took the advice from the usenet and SWMBO and got the AUTO, I have always had a manual. THIS IS A GREAT TRUCK, BUT, I WANT A MANUAL AGAIN!

 

It's not that the 48re isn't a good automatic. But generally speaking automatics just don't last as long as manuals. And if you plan to keep your truck until you wear out your Cummins you will go through several automatics. If you have a manual you will probably just be replacing clutches.

 

Some of us just prefer manuals. Most people like autos. Get what YOU like to drive.