6 speed versus automatic
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New User
Joined: Nov 2002
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6 speed versus automatic
My husband and I are looking at buying a 1999 or 2000 F250 diesel. We have heard that with an automatic on a diesel that there are often times problems with the transmissions. There seems to be too much power with the diesel, which causes problems with an automtic. What are the opinions with buying a 6 speed versus an automatic? We will be using this truck to primarily pull a fifth wheel 4-horse trailer, so maybe the 6 speed would be a better use for us.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 4,411
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From: Central KY
6 speed versus automatic
We can use Dodge as an example here.
The Cummins Turbo Diesel comes in two versions: a regular output model and a "high output" model. The "high output" diesel can ONLY be ordered with the 6-speed manual transmission.
That should answer your question. Automatics have advantages too, and in most vehicles they come with higher towing ratings. But for some reason, diesel powered trucks seem to be stronger with the manual transmission. Of course, this will all change now with the new TorqShift Automatic, but if you are looking at 2000 models, I'd stick with the 6-speed if I were you. Especially if you plan to tow a lot. You can use the 6-speed to control your speed better.
:-X12
The Cummins Turbo Diesel comes in two versions: a regular output model and a "high output" model. The "high output" diesel can ONLY be ordered with the 6-speed manual transmission.
That should answer your question. Automatics have advantages too, and in most vehicles they come with higher towing ratings. But for some reason, diesel powered trucks seem to be stronger with the manual transmission. Of course, this will all change now with the new TorqShift Automatic, but if you are looking at 2000 models, I'd stick with the 6-speed if I were you. Especially if you plan to tow a lot. You can use the 6-speed to control your speed better.
:-X12
Posting Guru
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 1,465
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From: Indianapolis
6 speed versus automatic
What WXboy said is true but this new Ford Powertorque automatic transmission was developed specifically for towing. The computer senses the fact that you are towing a load and automatically adjusts the shift points to accomodate the fact that you are towing. Then when you unhook and are just running the truck with no load, it automatically reverts back to normal shifting. If I were you I'd take a good look at this new transmission package.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 4,788
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From: Mansfield, TX USA
6 speed versus automatic
I towed with an automatic and a stick. With the automatic, you have a fluid coupling between you and the load. This seems to soften the jerking from the trailer. When I towed with the stick, I felt every tug of the trailer.
Just my impression. No scientific facts.
Just my impression. No scientific facts.
