Manual vs Automatic transmission in TV

blofgren wrote:
OK, I'm going to go against the grain here and state that my preference is a manual transmission, which my last 3 trucks have been. They cost less, generate WAY less heat especially under load, are extremely reliable, and are a snap to drive for an experienced driver. I drive a 2012 F-150 for a work vehicle and as much as I will admit that the newer automatics are better than they used to be, they are still not as good as a manual. I also can't help but think that these transmissions will cost a fortune in the future to rebuild/repair when the time comes, which it will especially when towing heavy.

With all due respect to those who state that they are difficult to get a heavy load moving, back a trailer into a campsite, etc. I can't help but think that they have not driven a manual transmission mated to a modern diesel with plenty of low end torque. My Cummins/6 speed manual transmission has the zero throttle launch feature which means put the transmission in the PROPER gear (not too high, especially under heavy load), and easily let the clutch out. This is easily accomplished with any heavy load on any hill and the truck does not even snort. The Cummins/manual transmission combo was a match made in heaven!

In regards to driving in heavy traffic, as long as I am watching traffic ahead and using the exhaust brake in full on mode, I can easily drop down to 15 mph in 5th gear using the exhaust brake and pull out of it without downshifting. If you are a race to each light and hit the brakes kind of driver, this method will not work for you!

Yes, the Cummins is derated on paper with the manual transmission. I drove Cummins equipped trucks with both the manual and automatic transmissions and the manual transmission did not feel any more sluggish, perhaps because of the power absorbed by the automatic. In any case, I am not at all unhappy with the power of my truck and even if I was a programmer will easily fix that when my warranty is up.

And lastly, I'm not sure why some are saying the manual transmissions are gone when Ram still offers the Cummins with a manual.

Just my 2 cents worth.

X2
Glad I read all six pages!
I think the biggest reason for automatics is so uncoordinated people can drive cars and trucks! :B Did I just say that??? :S

I daily drive my Cummins 5 speed back and forth to work, six or seven stop lights. I don't give it a second thought. I tow an 11,000#+ 5er and have gotten stuck in stop and go traffic on the coast, hilly little towns. I don't have an issue.
It is all about the driver!! Some people just can't drive a stick, some want their coffee, and sandwich.
One of the reasons the manual is going away, likely warranty claims on clutches. Ram should offer the Cummins with a double disk clutch, that is what I installed in my Daily Driver, and have zero issues shifting or starting out.
I believe that resale is not hurt with a manual, as there are many that want them, and they are getting to be fewer and fewer available.
It is all a state of mind, driving my manual is automatic!