Electric Transfer Case

[AlanRoberts]

Does anyone have any pros or cons about the electric shift NP273 transfer case versus manual NP271 ? Thanks.



Alan

 

[rbattelle]

In my opinion, manual shift = fewer parts = simpler = better.

 

[XcumminsX]

to add on to the above post... less to worry about later in the trucks life

 

[JHardwick]

I always like my manually shifted transfer case to go along with my manually shifted transmission. It's a simple gear box right?



I had to choice with the Laramie and so far have had no problems, we'll see how goes it on the long haul!

 

[Radshooter]

We have electronic shift on the wife's Toyota. So far, no problems. Have used it quite a bit this winter. Personally, I like the manual shifter in my Dodge, because I can find it by instinct, and don't have to take my eyes off the road to find a button to push.

 

[JHardwick]

I always opted for the manually shifted tranfer case to go with the manually shifter transmission. It's a simple gear box right?



I had no choice with the Laramie, but I haven't had a problem yet.



Time will tell.

 

[JHardwick]

This site is screwing up!

 

[MO'Donnell]

So far I like the dial-a-drive. Works well, no problems. It was part of the Laramie package, which was a must to get the heated seats. My understanding is that the t-cases are the same, except the for an electric servo motor to handle shifting in the electronic version.

 

[StephenThomas]

So far so good with my "dial a drive"

 

[JRG]

Love my dial-a-drive, very very smooth. Electric windows use little motors and are used WAY more than the t-case motor.



JRG

 

[BIG BOB]

I like the Dial-a-Drive! Quick and easy! Also like the 48RE!

 

[TBrennan]

My take is servo motor vs. linkages. Both have been known to fail. I have an auto and like the ease of looking down, turning a knob and getting my eyes and thoughts back on the road quickly, especially in conditions warranting the use of 4x4 mode.



As a nice bonus the floor is clear of levers for custom console construction.

 

[DPelletier]

Both are fine. The linkage set up is definitely less prone to potentail failure, regardless. If I had an auto, I'd probably get the elec unit to clear the floor, but being as how I only was interested in the 6spd, having one less shifter made no difference to me. I also find the manual shifter to be extremely easy to use and find whilst driving.



Dave

 

[HoleshotHolset]

The $500 option isn't worth it to me... .



I like to keep things as simple as possible.



Do the trucks with manual shifted x-fer cases have any sort of cup holders or storage on the floor?



The '04 I drove had the electric x-fer case (with the NV5600... ) and it had a really nice console on the floor... .



Matt

 

[banshee]

Yes. The cupholders are on the floor behind the shifter with the manual transfer case.

 

[HoleshotHolset]

Sweet! Thanks for the quick reply...



That little bit of info makes the decision so much more easy. Manual t-case for me... no doubt.



Matt

 

[Dean Upson]

Love the dial-a-ride. No problems.



Dean

 

[MO'Donnell]

Originally posted by HoleshotHolset

Sweet! Thanks for the quick reply...



That little bit of info makes the decision so much more easy. Manual t-case for me... no doubt.



Matt

The floor console is based on the transmission selection, not t-case. Sticks get the floor console, autos get the open floor (unless you have the manual 4WD) and cupholders in a drawer in the dash - right in front of where the shift lever is.



If you get the Laramie, you get the dial-a-drive. Get the SLT, dial-a-drive is an overpriced option and you can't get dual-zone climate, bun toasters... .



When I bought my truck, the actual price difference between an SLT and the Laramie was under $1000, including items not available on the SLT.



When it comes to "innovations" (elec 4wd shift) , it goes like this



First to come out gets the credit (Ford I believe)... .

Second is called a "copycat" GM... .

Third acutally figures it out and makes it work!



The elec. 4WD has been used in so many vehicles for so long, it really didn't give me much concern - but I definitely would NOT pay $500 for it as a stand-alone option.

 

[Dean Upson]

In my opinion, the Laramie option has enough goodies in it to make it worth every cent.



Dean

 

[HoleshotHolset]

I have been seeing pretty consistant $5000 differences between the SLT's and Laramie's...



You do get a lot for your money with a Laramie, but there are a few things that I could do without and don't want to pay for the things I don't want... .



Matt