I would definately do the manual. I have the auto and it is nice until it goes out. And it has done that. It did it to me when I drove to cali. I had to pay ford to put in a new one because i had no tools with me and it was like $2700. As long as you do not put insane power infront of the manual all that you should ever have to do is change fluid and clutches. However if you put insane power in front of the auto it will go as well. I can tell you my next truck will be a manual.