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Old Sep 21, 2007 | 12:33 PM
  #1  
Marty86's Avatar
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Auto or manual?

So I know that many who are auto fans, versus manual fans, will quickly jump from one side to the other. But I am looking for a 2000-03 7.3 4x4 extended cab (not crew cab), and I'd like a manual, but Auto seems to be the norm. I love manual, but I'm easy either way. What are the pros and cons between the two? Is the 4100 (I think thats what it is called) a good auto? How about the ZF? I've driven a ZF 5spd, and six speed, loved them both. But I like the auto also.

The differences in gas mileage I'd assume are 1mpg off from each other I'm sure. With the setup I mentioned above, what mpg would you assume I'd get? Or what do you get? Stock or not? (if not, what mods improved)

Thanks all for your help!
 
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Old Sep 21, 2007 | 02:20 PM
  #2  
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If you prefer the manual trans then get it. Will last longer than my auto, they say. I have 115,000 miles on mine with no problems. But it will need attention in the future I am sure.
I just don't like to shift anymore, in my old age.lol

Good luck.
 

Last edited by miller_feed; Sep 21, 2007 at 02:22 PM.
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Old Sep 21, 2007 | 03:31 PM
  #3  
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depends on what u do i would say ... with a load id say stick shift for good ol everyday driver in town i would say auto ... Remember once ur on the highway you will be on your last gear not shifting as much anyway
 
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Old Sep 21, 2007 | 04:09 PM
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I drive my stick every day to work about 10 mi. She got about 18mpg before the lift/tires with just the exhaust. Since the lift and other mods, about 16.5. Both numbers are a pretty even mix of city and highway. Wouldn't trade my stick for the world. Only slightly annoying when sitting in traffic, but I have good knees for now. If pedal effort is a big concern, try an aftermarket clutch - I hear the LUK ones are like pushing air compaired the the stocker.
 
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Old Sep 21, 2007 | 06:32 PM
  #5  
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If you want a go fast truck I'd say go automatic. It can get expensive real fast speed shifting a ZF-6. Having said that, I love my ZF-6. It's a truck, not a Caddy!
 
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Old Sep 21, 2007 | 07:00 PM
  #6  
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I have an auto in my truck, and for what I use it for, its perfect. I dont haul or tow much, and for just plain ol regular every day driving, the auto is a nice choice, for me.
 
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Old Sep 21, 2007 | 07:19 PM
  #7  
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I have a 250 SD ,7.3, with an auto, 163,000 miles on truck tows every day and never had a wrench on it. I vote for the AUTO !!!!
jr
 
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Old Sep 21, 2007 | 07:55 PM
  #8  
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I prefer a stick especially if your hauling alot and going thru mountains. The manual allows you full control for the power/torque band etc.. In the end it all depends on what you want and expect your truck to be capable of doing and of course your wallet. Just my $.02 Good luck.
 
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Old Sep 21, 2007 | 08:01 PM
  #9  
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be honest? I'd rather have a stick.

my automatic seems to have me reaching for the manual shift lever from time to time, but it always does what I want it to, eventually, without my input/over-ride
 
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Old Sep 22, 2007 | 01:12 PM
  #10  
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Not that Marty86 needs this, but do the sled pullers use autos or manuals. I've always heard that the low end torque amplification you get from the TC can make all the difference, provided it and the tranny holds together.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2007 | 02:05 PM
  #11  
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I've had both, and prefer the stick shift.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2007 | 04:25 PM
  #12  
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I enjoy my stick!
 
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Old Sep 22, 2007 | 05:13 PM
  #13  
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I have the ZF6 and love it. For towing in hills you get better engine breaking with the stick and I believe the potential total cost of ownership is cheaper with the stick over the auto.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2007 | 05:28 PM
  #14  
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I enjoy the auto due to just put it in gear and go. Well the bts trans helped with it though. Sometimes I wish I could shift and then other times I am glad I dont have to. When I broke my leg I was glad it was an auto! Just personal preferance though.
 
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Old Sep 22, 2007 | 07:22 PM
  #15  
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Lessee.... My 'stang was a 5-speed, but I swapped it to a C6 because I kept breaking the T5. My BroncoII was a 4-speed auto, but I broke it and it wouldn't go into OD. Traded it off for my Ranger that was a 5-speed -- had to replace the slave cylinder, which requires the tranny be pulled, so I did the clutch, too. Just over one month later, I got the F250 with an auto. Go figure...

I think I prefer the auto, but there are times that I miss the stick. I think the clutch is fairly expensive in the 6-speed, but then again, so is a BTS. Pretty much pick your poison, IMHO.

Joe
 
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