Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) How good is the 2001 six speed

[SWC]

I have an 01. 5 ETH DEE. I will be using my truck for hotshot towing starting this fall. One company recommended automatic transmissions in the Dodge trucks. The reason, automatics last longer with regular maintenance then a manual trans. I asked if that was the new 6 speed and he said he did not know. That is my question to you guys with more experience.

How important is it to monitor the temperature of the gear train; transmission, transfer case and differential? Or am I getting to anal?

TIA!

Stan

 

[Whitmore]

Stan

I have had a 2001 eth/dee for 2 years now and have had 0 complaints or troubles, I would'nt have an auto but each to his own, If I were you I would get the magtech rearend cover and add synthetic gear lube and a temp gage , the manual evan says for heavey or frequent towing one should change to synthetic... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Go for it... ... ... ..... Kevin

 

[Rcpilotlv]

If its half the truck mine is, its AWESOME

 

[dresslered]

automatics last longer with regular maintenance then a manual trans.

That's the first time I've heard that one. Love my six banger combined with a six speed. I only monitor the rear end temperature which has a Mag-Hytec.

 

[JWhitcomb]

I would be more concerned with the clutch instead. One driver recently reported five clutch changes from hot shot use.

 

[DUNE RACER]

My trucks been great, I only have 22,000 miles on it but its heavily loaded around 18,000 lbs GCWR 80% of the time. I can't believe how much better the 6 speed pulls over my beefed 98 automatic I had before.

 

[Mundgyver]

I've got over 70,000 on mine now and it's great. I've put on the fast coolers and the mag-hi tech. I tow anything I want with no problems at all. I also have the jake brake. My saying is "I'll tow anything, anytime, anywhere" The 6 speed is a good choice for you.

 

[Hohn]

I just bought a six speed after searching high and low to find one. I think that it will last a good long time, and if you drive it right, it's fair to say that almost any manual transmission will outlast an automatic, if for no other reason than how they operate. Manual transmissions are simpler and run cooler because of the direct mechanical connection. Usually, they get better mileage (if the ratios are comparable).

If nothing else, consider the cost of replacing a clutch vs the cost of getting a new automatic! Yikes!

IMHO, if you are willing to expend the effort, a manual rewards you in many, many ways.

 

[Dane]

Hmmm... Dodge added the six speed just for folks who tow, but the auto lasts longer



I don't think I'd get anymore advice from that person

 

[claymike]

My 98. 5 was auto impaired, the transmission and torque converter went out at 33k. I now own a 2001 six speed and have 55,000 miles on it with about half of that towing 20k+ gross lbs.



Mike

 

[Sageair]

I agree with HOHN. Manual trannys build less heat than an auto. A manual transmission that is treated right can easily go a million miles without any trouble. I've yet to see an auto do that. My 2001 six speed exhibits the fairly common notchy 2nd to 3rd shift when cold but is fine once warm. My company truck a 99 PSD six speed is coming up on 200,000 miles with the truck weighing 13,500 lbs everyday and occasionally towing an additional 14,000 lbs (backhoe) with LOTS of serious 4wd low range work and is as good as the day it was new. Look in the cab of over the road trucks that literally log millions of miles before they are retired and see how many autos you see.

 

[klenger]

One gear for each cylinder. Sounds right to me.

 

[SWC]

Thanks for all of the replies. I agree with Dane about not getting any more advice from that guy.

I have around 38,000 miles on the truck so far and love it. The only problem is my clutch slipping with only the EZ in it, but that is another topic which will be dealt with.

I appreciate all of you on this forum who are willing to lend support and advice when asked. I know that I have learned a lot just from hanging around this forum.

Thanks again.

Stan