I bought the truck in my signature new after owning 3 Ford trucks including 2 diesels.
As you can see our truck is the Laramie Megacab dually with 3.73 gears and the G56 6 speed manual transmission. In simple words; I absolutely love the truck. Like you, I prefer manual transmissions and this truck is super easy to drive. The Cummins has the zero launch feature which means you just simply let the clutch out with no throttle no matter what is hooked to the truck or what grade you are on. The truck has such massive low end torque it does not even snort starting out with our 16k lbs fifth wheel on a large grade. It is also a pleasure and breeze to drive in city traffic when using the exhaust brake in full mode because the truck will slow down to 15 mph in 5th gear and easily pull out of it without downshifting. The exhaust brake also works in every gear down to 1,000 RPM with the manual transmission which is great for creeping around a steep campground in 1st gear with the trailer.
The truck is good on fuel and has plenty of pulling power. I have only found one steep mountain pass where I had to shift into 4th; most are quite easily pulled in 5th or 6th gears. The creature comforts of the Laramie are superb, as is the awesome integral brake controller. We have the 5th wheel prep group which I also highly recommend.
The only thing I don't like about the truck is the crappy General tires on it but I will fix that soon with a set of Michelins. If you want a manual transmission, stick with it and find one; you won't regret it!
Brad
