I realize I am a bit stuck in my ways but my concern about the auto is shift points determined by the computer. I don't know how well they have this figured out but I sure don't want the thing searchin for gears. I also like the exhaust brake and my 5 speed. Again don't know how the auto backs down win that configuration. Not sayin at all I won't go with the auto. I will be harder if in fact the manual is a benz though. I'm also a bit out of my area when it comes to 19.5 tires and gear ratios. Not sure what would be the best fit for mpg and towing. I would guess maybe the 4.44's but it's just a guess.

I talked to the dealer and he told me the trans was a benz but he may or may not know anyway.

 

The 19.5" tires are the same overall same hiegth as the pick ups 17s. Personally I have the 4.44s with the G56 and it seems to be a good combo for a loaded truck that is working all the time. Mine will spend most of its life unloaded waiting to haul an RV so I will be looking for an aux trans to get the RPM down for unloaded cruising. The RPM is 2300 at at 60-65 MPH. A .75 aux trans will drop that down to 1700 RPM. I believe the G56 is made by Mercedes in S America but I could never find a conclusive answer on the internet. It looks like the Getrag was a rumor from the pre production days. On a seperate note you will love the brakes over your 3500!!!!

 

I use the G56 in my snowplow.....A auto would be much faster fo all the back and forth I have to do..BUT for spotting or pulling we are back to the G56 so..cant have both, I will keep the G56

 

Are you saying you had the auto and went to the manual trans? You find the manual better for towing?

What is the deal with the aux trans? How do they work and what is the cost?

 

Never had a auto,..might be a lot better for snow plowing..but not so good for towing
The manual for me is the only way to go for "work"truck

 

auxiliary transmissions bolt in behind your factrory trans. They were common back in the day up until the 70s in medium and heavy trucks. Pretty much all of the major trans companies made them although they are getting scarce. The closest thing being made today that I am aware of is a gear vendors OD unit. Last time I checked they were $3200 and you still need driveshaft work and install.

 

ok know of the gear vendor. Just wondered if there was something new out there?