i was thinking about going with a manual trans for the truck im taking to costa rica, but was wondering if manuals trans are a pain to tow with, say pulling out at the ramp and hualing a heavy boat. any feedback would be great, thx, rm

I hate shifting. Been towin with deisle automatics since 94. Would never deal with a stick again.

I'd hate to do it. A sports car, sure no problem, but up the ramp with 10K#, no thanks.

No way I would want a stick shift on a ramp. I've done it before. It sucks big time. Launching is no problem. Retrieving sucks.

I had autos in earlier 1/2ton type stuff- smaller loads etc.

I've run an 01 Dodge/Cummins for 80k+, 80% towing- 5 speed

now have 03 Dodge/Cummins hit 80k miles today, towing 90% 10-16k wt trailers -6 speed

most towing now OTR with my FL70 toterhome- eaton fuller 6 speed

the sticks are simple and reliable, could be a consideration for outside US support. each has a granny gear- a breeze on the ramps- with the gov on the diesels you'd have to be an idiot to stall it- my 12 yr old son, daughter and wife can all run the truck on the ramp with no issues. That said- the FL70 granny is a bit taller an needs a little clutch finess on hills and on the ramp. The Dodges are idiot-proof, don't even use low range or 4wd

Have been towing with my 7.3 PSD since new (1996), not a problem at all. No different than starting off up a hill with a stick. Just use 1st gear, don't even have to give it throttle. When driving normally, with no trailer, start off in 2nd. My boat/trailer is probably around 8500 pounds. I actually wanted a stick when I bought my truck new, because at the time, automatics were known not to hold up well with the diesels. Automatics have come along ways for diesels since 1996 though.

easier to slow down with a manual...no problems here

i've done ramps plenty of times with a manual its no biggy.


learn to drive ladies..........

I'm going to go manual on my next truck. I've never liked automatics with their inherent problems. Not worried one bit about a ramp. I had a F250 that was manual and I loved it.

I use a Kodiak with a Cat 3116TD 6 speed trans. No prolbem at the ram pulling out @13,000lbs of boat. Just use the granny gear. Yes and auto would be the easiest. But do like the manuel trans.