Nice thread OP! Sometimes we have to look beyond initial cost and look at cost over time. The gasser TV's I have had (about 5) were all cheaper initially but the mileage I got prompted my move to my first diesel TV. After spending some $$$ getting it "really" ready for the road I can see how a HDT like yours would have worked better for me.
I like the durability of the commercial components, the size of the vehicle and the repair/parts support for that driveline compared to the 6.0L "step child" I have. I used to drive straight trucks daily in the city through rush hour and congestion parking in tight spots so I know it is something one can get used to (8-12 hours a day).
I have never heard of a transmission like yours and others posted here. That really sells me the idea of having the convenience of an auto, the option to shift like a stick and the clutch instead of torque convertor (creates heat). Most trucks I drove were sticks some with split axles, and low/high ranges so the idea of sitting back and letting the computer and elf's do the work for me sounds really appealing.
