I am getting ready to move up to an 05. I am comparing the automatic compared to the 6 Speed. The trailer that I tow some weighs in at around 17,000 fully loaded and some of the places that I go with it has up to 13% grades. That is my only concern in regards to the auto when decending these types of grades and pulling out of them. Anyone out there have any experiences to share or advice as to what you would agree as the best for this type of use? Thank's.

 

13% grades? WOW pulling 17000lbs, I'm assuming it will be a 3500 DRW. General piece of mind, 6 Speed IMO. How long are these 13% grades?

 

Six speed.

 

Six speed you will dislike auto pulling loads like that

 

definately six speed, and a letter of intent so i can make sure i'm not in front of or behind you

 

Gotta go with the 6-spd.

 

There is one place that we like to go in Tennessee. There is a gorge that you need to go through to get there. It is 1 mile down and 1 mile up with 13% grades and true k--- your a-- curves that near to come back into themselves. My current truck does this nicely with no problems down or up. I would assume that the 05 3500, DRW, 4X4, Quad, with 4:10 gears would have no more of a problem. My current truck is sweet to drive and with the Banks set up on it it has plenty of power but is getting old. It is practically wore out with 59,000 miles but is a dependable truck. Ha! I do like the new trucks and want to make a smart decision when I buy. I was thinking that the exhaust brake would be a must with the 6 speed as I like the one that I use now.

 

you mean the engine is wore out at 59K or just the truck itself?

 

Just funnin. The truck and the engine are still super and are in excellant shape. It is scheduled in after Christmas for a new lift pump but other than that it is like new. Stays inside when not on road, wifes car is outside.
Got a message from a local dealer on pricing a new 05. Check it out. Silver 2005 Laramie, 3500, CTD, Quad, DRW, 4X4, 6 speed, anti spin, leather wrapped steering wheel, pwr adjust pedals, block heater, fog lamps, trailer tow group, sport appearance group, rear window defrost,folding power trailer tow mirrors, flat fold load floor rear, auto dim rear view, hood protection sheild.
MSRP------$ 44,675.00
My price--$ 37,293.00 out the door.
I think that I have found my sweetheart. Time for an exhaust brake.

 

I love the mirrors on those too. Better than any aftermarket ones I have seen.

 

Well,...Once again I pull quite heavy loads and pull them frequently...78500 trouble free miles on the 48RE. I think it is really proving itself, and I would not trade it for anything, but I like to relax when driving...

13%?? Wow, if I were to do that with one of my heavy trailers and my pickup, I guess I would slow WAY down before the decsent, and the truck would hold it in 1st. If that does not suit you, and you don't mind shifting and clutching all the time, I think your decision is a no brainer. I know nothing of e-brakes, because I have always operated under the assumption that they did not apply to automatic applications? Have fun making the decision, and enjoy your new truck.

 

Id go with a six speed,

I dont tow that heavy, but i do like the control, and from grades experiences in montana, autos will surely puke out on you quick... and with less control, i dont feel so safe....

TxDiesel007

 

Six speed and a exhaust brake, you'll be in heaven...

 

From what I have heard, the exhaust brake fron DC is on hold as they seem to be having an issue with it and will not put them on right now. I checked with Pac Brake and they have one now for the 04.5 and up and I hve one on my 99 that has worked flawlessly so I know that there is at least one out there. Anyone heard of the issue with the one from DC?

 

6-speed (tighter gear spacing) and e-brake. See signature.

Rusty