Automatic or 5spd

[xbrotherx]

I currently have a 96 f250 psd ccsb 4x4 5spd but it's lookin like it's about to go on the auction block. I want to replace with another exactly like it, but trying to find another 5spd is almost impossible. But finding automatics is easy.

What is everyone's opinion on automatic versus 5spd manual? I prefer the manual because I have heard it has less to go wrong. But is that true? Thoughts?

[CT Performance, Inc.]

Manuels are simple so less prone to problems..but kill performance, a auto will be 2-3 sec's faster to 60 than a stick.

[rolsmojave3]

It's a truck, I think it should have a Manual. I've always enjoyed manual vehicles over autos.

[RPurdy]

Originally Posted by rolsmojave3

It's a truck, I think it should have a Manual. I've always enjoyed manual vehicles over autos.

I love manuals but the PSD manuals just cant handle thw power. I stay away from them honestly. They drive me crazzy

[rolsmojave3]

What can't handle the power? My truck has over 250k has been tuned most of it's life and has no issues. Yes it does tow.

[CowboyCody]

the manual transmission will most always be cheaper to maintain and will in most cases outlast the automatic without issues. i have seen them with 300k without being touched. and syncros, bearing kits and clutches are cheaper than an auto rebuild. i love manuals for other reasons like you can tow it if you have to with no worries, if the starter goes out you can roll start it, you wont be stranded by a sensor issue(on the tranny anyway) its fun to shift, ect. with all that being said i would buy the nicer better maintained truck you can build a mean auto if you want to and there is more to the truck than just the tranny. I have to admit I do love my 6spd and it was one of the reasons i picked the truck i have.

[RPurdy]

The way it shifts. The power curve through the gears. I just never liked how it felt. I guess it does the job fine. Just not to my standards

[95dieselsmoke]

ZF FTW, but of course I dont have my truck to race with so I am not worried about it being slower than autos. What matters to me is that it tows like a champ and loves abuse. If you cant find one just do what I did....buy an auto and make it a manual.

[madpogue]

Originally Posted by xbrotherx

I prefer the manual because I have heard it has less to go wrong. But is that true? Thoughts?

When I read on the forums about the problems people have with their automatics, and the complexity of them, I'm glad both of my wife's are 5-speeds. For example, the idea that something as simple as a burned-out brake light bulb can interfere with the torque converter lock-up is . And the electronic controls, etc.; ouch. About the only really bad thing about the manuals is the clutch actuation (the cr@ptastic plastic pedal bushings) and the stoopid OEM dual-mass flywheel. But they're easily remedied and fairly simple, mechanically. Give me something that, day in day out, whatever the whether, you move the lever, pick up the pedal and it goes.

But the ultimate selection is very personal, because it's such a different driving style. Neither my wife nor I could ever stand to drive automatics on a regular basis. Some folks like manuals for "specialty" driving purposes/situations, but prefer an automatic as a DD. That's really what you have to boil it down to. And indeed, if you do choose a manual, be prepared to spend a lot of time hunting. Took a long time to find each of our trucks, but it was worth it.

[Sarsaparilla]

I have had both, and I must say I definitely prefer the manual. They do seem to be quite a bit slower than the autos, but for me, it's a worthwhile trade off. Bottom line, keep searching until you find exactly what you want. If you settle for an auto when you want a manual, you'll probably be unhappy before too long. You could always do the ZF swap, but that seems like too much of a PITA for me