Notice: We request that you don't just set up a new account at this time if you are a previous user. If you used to be one of our moderators, please feel free to reach out to Chris via the facebook Outerlimits4x4 group and he will get you set back up with access should he need you.
Recovery:If you cannot access your old email address and don't remember your password, please click here to log a change of email address so you can do a password reset.
I agree mostly with BJ - autos rock on uphills but aren't as good as manual downhills although this can be improved.
I've recently converted to auto and wouldn't go back.
auto for a competition truck - as it frees you from having to worry about gears when you're trying to pick the right line under the clock, easier for crawling and climbing, looks trick with a nice shifter.
manual for a trail rig - due to versatility, engine braking, ability to push start, cheaper cost, also lets you get more out of your engine, looks great with dual transfer case levers and line brake levers.
autos can be modified with lock up converters, gives an ok hill decent engine braking.. also if you have decent low gearing, auto will be better down hills...me want an auto, but finding suitable affordable one fer a zook aint simple..I read somewhere that severe side angles can move fluid and lose drive??????? they do need good cooling to function. the torque coverter gives a bit more variable gearing. horses for courses, christover(will probly need auto medically soon)
4WD SUZUKI CLUB VICTORIA
http://www.vic.suzuki4wd.com/forum/
I'd love to get an auto for mine for a number of reasons. I'm lazy , less strain on the drivetrain as the auto will "take up" some of the shock loading, with the low gearing I alrady have (6:1 tcase) the downhill issue isn't as much of a concern.
Auto, less strain on the driveline, much less driveline snatch, can rock vehicle over obstacles without stalling, no clutch to fry, much less stall-able than a stick (can crawl just off idle) much better climbing ability.
The only advantage a stick has is downhill due to the deeper reduction which is usually due to the numerically higher 1st gear rather than the low range t/case ratio.
An auto with low range gears is king
I used to think manuals only in a 4wd as can be started by pushing if your starter packs it in. After driving a mates auto Rangie with a 308 and a couple of TDI Discos I would now have an auto in my next 4wd or if the 5spd in my Rangie dies. Maybe just a matter of carrying a spare starter for those remote trips.