Feedback on 2008 Automatic/Manual Transmission

[NStates]

I am planning to order a new 2008 3500 RAM and would like feedback on how the 6 speed automatic works for towing. I presently have a 2005 3500 HO with the manual 6 speed and a Pac Brake. I find it excellent for towing but Since we use this as our only vehicle I would like to switch to the automatic. I would like some input from those who have the automatic.

Can you order the 2008 with the automatic and install an exhaust brake? How well doe it work? I use the truck to tow a Mobile Suites fifth wheel about 3,000 to 4,000miles each year.



Thanks

 

[jelag]

All 08 trucks have the 6. 7L engine and the exhaust brake is either added or is a stock feature..... I've got an 08 5500 in transit right now and we could not find the exhaust brake feature on the build sheet so we assumed it was a stock item... . Because in the 5500 the auto transmission I'm told is the same transmission that has been used for some time in the light duty Mercedes Benz trucks I ordered it... . Hopefully it will be as good as the NV5600 have been in our 3500's.....

IF they have their act together and the exhaust brake interfaces with the Aisan transmission as well as the Allison does with the Duramax this will be a great combination... ... I personally think that the Duramax Allison, or the 5. 9 Allison used in some Fords is far superior to the current 5. 9 and auto used in the 06, 07 production when it comes to and exhaust brake and down shifting...

On the other hand if I owned your 2500 I'd keep it, as I'm betting your going to take from 5,000 to 7,500 hit to trade up... . something I wouldn't do... . When we're empty we start in 2nd or 3rd to save the shifting.....

Just my thoughts. . BTW we drive them for 500K miles before we trade... the 04 listed below has 245K miles. .

 

[roperteacher]

Jelag, can't wait to see a picture of that Dodge 5500!!!!

 

[hearingyourlies]

Every 2007+ 6. 7, from what I understand, has the exhaust brake standard.

 

[NStates]

Thanks guys - this will help me out in making my decision.



Norm