Re: [A/S] Stick shift for towing? Technology has advanced

[nudog@xxxxxxx]

For sake of discussion: > 
> 
> >Sure, automatics are more complex than sticks, but the engineering of a
> >modern automatic, properly sized for the job is up to the task and then
> >some. All things being equal, with periodic fluid and filter changes, an
> >automatic will usually last longer than a clutch on a manual.

Really feels this depends on the habits and ability of the driver, yes I know 
of people who had to replace their clutch at less than 50,000 miles.  Yet I 
have had clutchs last the entire I owned  the vehicle, my wife's current Saturn 
has over 107,000 miles with original clutch, a Rabbit I owned had over 
120,000 miles on original clutch, two pickups I owned and  towed with both over 
125,000 miles.  Really feel if you know how to operate the clutch to avoid wear 
and tear they are not a problem. 
> 
> From a safety standpoint, the automatic makes it a lot easier for the driver
> to keep the tow vehicle in the proper gear.  Down shifting a stick (for
> engine braking) while descending a hill and the rig is picking up speed
> (especially when the shift lever is in neutral in the middle of the shift)
> can be a very harrowing experience (but no sweat with an automatic).

Depends on the driver, watch most rigs as they approach a downgrade, they are 
already in lower gear, they are shifting to a higher gear on the downside.  
If they do need to downshift, this is no problem for the experienced driver.  > 
> 
> 
Also regarding clutchs, ride with an experience over the road driver, not 
city driver, notice they dont use the clutch except to start the rig rolling.  
Most OTR people slide shift their rigs.  That is why you hear alot of times a 
short burst of engine rpm at they down shift the truck, it is amazing how smooth 
the trans will shift. If fact one way OTR's can tell if their partner or they 
are getting tired is you begin to clip gears or dont slide shift as smooth as 
your getting tired. 

Personally I still feel I have more control in ice or snow with a manual, I 
can select the gear and instead of braking as in an auto, let the engine brake 
for me by simply taking my foot off the gas.  No worry about slides or 
breaking traction with braking.  

I will admit auto's are better in bumper to bumper or city traffic - lets of 
stop and go, gets to be a pain.  

For those who brought up "truckers" going to auto's, they had them out back 
in the early eighties at least, still dont seem to be rage.  

Also I still get better gas mileage with by manual, able to shift gears 
faster than auto to gain the extra mileage.

Have an enjoyable evening, Jim