Here's the word I got................ not saying it's right or wrong, but it's what I had heard to make me say that I thought Automatic was better (c:Some of the above sounds a bit like a what the salesman might tell some one to move what is on the lot.Although we feel we have more control with a manual transmission, the tow ratings published by the manufacturers are higher for automatics than for manuals. Also, and here's the thing that got us into automatics, the manufacturers do not warranty standard transmissions. If your clutch fails at 10,000 miles, tough luck. Also, the don't make manual trannies like the old ones when you could just replace a clutch or a warn part. Now you need a $1200 assembly! So even though you might feel more comfortable with the manual, the $$$$ and the tow ratings say automatic.
While I can't speak for all vehicles I am unaware of any difference in tow ratings between the two transmissions in my Dodge. ( 14000 lbs plus or minus should be adequate)Unfortunately I trashed my literature the other day so can't double check.
I just checked the clutch info in my 99 service manual ($106.00, gag, cough) . The clutch consists of the same individual parts that they always have. Servicing a clutch is not fun, but it is still on the home mechanic level.
The Clutch and manual shift have the same driveline warranty as the auto..The clutch life in a properly driven and geared vehicle should be measured in the hundred(s) of thousand miles.
Seems it is still pretty much a matter of personal preference.
Rick Davis 1602
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