5-spd vs. Auto

[KPancake]

I am looking at buying a 12 valve truck in the near future. I was wondering which would be the bes to get in terms of trannies. I am going to BOMB it moderately but which one will hold up the best in the long run? Also, what is the most HP/Torque that is being run through these things. Thanks.



Chris

 

[Dkevdog]

I personally prefer a 5spd in the 12v, just cause I like to have control over the shift and the ability to use engine braking. I just feel you have more control over the truck.



On the other hand... ... ... ..... I like not having to shift, specially in traffic. And if you get DTT to tweak that transmission... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ..... L O O K O U T ! ! !



Kev

 

[SteveH]

At best, when pulling really heavy loads, the auto transmission is marginal. I knocked out 2 new trannies, not rebuilt, before I had even 24,000 miles on mine. Dodge will tell you that if you are grossing anywhere near the max GVW, the auto is not what you want. I have had a 12 valve 5 speed manual now for the last 65,000 miles, pulling the same trailer and have not had a single problem. (other than loosing the 5th gear one day driving without a load). I have 299. 7 hp at the rear wheels and this transmission handles it well. (Their clutch seems to be a weak point in the system when parking and riding the clutch a bit)

 

[diesaldual]

Lost my auto transmission at 37,000 miles!! cost about 3grand to get it back right!!(Thanks Bill)

My 2 cents, stay away from the damn auto it will cost you in the end!!again again and again!!

I am only holding on to mine because now it is the way it should be!!! But, one screw-up and to the 5or 6 speed I go!!

 

[Extreme1]

5 Speed!

The only issue is the potential 5th gear nut and there is a fix! If I had it to do over again...

 

[Eric_77]

I like the auto and do most of my driving in town so the manual was not an option for me. I moved from 5 speed in 92 and have not looked back. I pull on occasion up to 24k and other than minor problem with transmission; it was not slipping it had a servo or some electrical glitch that they had to tear transmission apart to fix; it has been great. I change fluid every 25k and alternate between dropping the pan and a fluid flush system they have at quicky oil change place that is supposed to change all the fluid out. I have recently added gauges and when partially loaded I am seeing temps of 210 at 30-45 MPH so I think 2nd or 3rd gear is starting to go. Driven about 25k since gauges were installed no slipping yet but I know it going to be out soon.