Automatic or Manual transmission?

ninerkj · #1 01-07-2007, 05:55 PM

I'm looking for some unbiased information on whether it is better to have an automatic transmission or a manual transmission while off roading. If anyone knows of a link with some information or your opinion and why.

Thank you
Kevin

#2 01-07-2007, 11:31 PM

in my oppinion standard is the better choice, they tend to be heavier built and give you more control over rpm's versus speed and also allows you keep in your powerband more

Hanr3 · #3 01-09-2007, 12:08 PM

Its mostly personal preference.
However I prefer an automatic and here's why.
You can build it to withstand anything.
The torque converter gives you unlimited gearing.
No clutch to burn up.
Keep the tranny cool and it will survive a long time.
One less peddle for your foot to slide off and for you to worry about.
Ever try to start a stalled truck facing uphill/downhill just past/before the obstical you just cleared, or are about to attempt with a stick? With an auto you can keep one foot on the brake, pop it into neutral or park and start it. With a clutch you have to pop it into nuetral with one foot on the clutch, one on the brake, and one on the gas peddle (3foot shuffle can be a challenge). Plus your not going to stall an engine with an auto tranny, like you will by popping the clutch on a manual.
With an auto you don't lose momentum while shifting gears.
The auto tranny is longer, thus giving you better front dirveshaft angles.
The auto will weigh roughly twice as much as a manual, and that weight is typically at the center of the vehicle, helps with your trucks center of gravity.

However, like I said at the beginning, its all personal prefference.

ninerkj · #4 01-09-2007, 03:35 PM

Thank you for your insight. I thougth that it was probably personal preference but I didn't know for sure. I saw a show in TV that they were changing an old Jeep from manual to automatic. I didn't know if the transmission made that much of a difference. Thanks again for the info. Keep it coming if there is anything else I should keep in mind.

Rebil79 · #5 01-11-2007, 07:49 PM

one problem with an auto is if you rip a line while wheeling your in trouble.
Making sure it stays cool it a key also.

Rebil

phantom_jeepster · #6 01-19-2007, 11:42 AM

I've always used Manuals. But it just what works best for you.

xjy173 · #7 01-27-2007, 11:39 AM

Manuals and automatics each have their good and bad points. I would look and find a vehicle that I like, in decent shape and at a price I could afford and go from there . Good Luck!! [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif[/img]

PS. For instance and since I'm a Jeep guy, I'll use them as examples. If you would like a used Jeep Wrangler, most you will find will have manual transmissions. If you like a Jeep Cherokee or Grand Cherokee, most have automatics.