I am not sure how to phrase this question, but here goes.

First a couple of things

I have owned both manual and automatic transmissions

I enjoy shifting gears - and take pride is doing a reasonable job with the RPM for the engine.

Having said that here is my delima

I have ordered a new 2003 4x4 F-250 with Diesel. I have told the folks to make it the 6-speed manual trans. Ford does have it's new 5-speed auto out as well.

Here is the driving that I do.

Some city - very little downtown
Around the local area - freeway, standard roads
Freeway - quite a bit
Search and Rescue on all kinds of roads - including 4x4

I also use the vehicle off road {2x4 and 4x4 modes} for not only the search and rescue, but for my own use as well - am very much the outdoor type.

Is the 6-speed manual smooth and quick shifting {and are there dependabality issues with it} ?.

Although not nearly as modern and totally computer controller, my current automatic does not suit my needs very well.

This is a major purchase that I plan to keep 10 years - so want to make the best choice for my use {and dependability} and with much more modern automatics out there I am interested to hear what folks have to say.

 

Try posting this in the Diesel and/or Super Duty forums. You may get a better response.

 

We also have a transmission related forum.

[font color=red]Dennis

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