The Gun Counter

either way (auto or manual) the OD has traditionally been the weak link in their diesel trannies. The OD is very expensive planetary gear style.

Dunno, maybe that's been cleared up on a newer model like yours.

My transmission guy said it can be very problematic going from an auto to a manual, because of the need to install a clutch pedal with its fulcrom points. I imagine a hydraulic clutch would be a necessity. Of course your truck could already have all the attaching points welded in already.

The auto that's in there is a TorqueFlite 48re (HD 4speed OD); but I can do a drop in upgrade to a 68rfe HD. Either is about $3k for ATS's heavy duty build.

All things considered, it being originally an A/T and the costs involved, it sounds like that's the plan to go for right there. Upgrade to a heavy buildup 68rfe HD.

... and less of a game of chance with aging knees and backs.

I prefer a stick, esp in a truck or 4x4, but I have had months or years at a stretch in my 40's when an A/T was physically the only option for me.

Having recently traded my Dodge 3500 w/ the 6-speed manual, I'd reiterate that the standard Dodge HD clutch is heavy. Yes, there are probably ways to make the pedal effort lighter, but it was so bad that 2-3 days in a row driving that to work instead of riding the bike or the much lighter clutched VW, and my reconstructed left knee would talk to me for most of the weekend.