ManualYes, it's true that city traffic can make the task of shifting seem like a chore, but for towing, a manual can't be beat.
Manual transmissions on tow rigs are generally equipped with a granny First gear, which usually provides double the reduction normally found in First. This added reduction makes it much easier to get started while hauling a heavy load. In addition, manual transmissions with more than four forward gears usually offer an Overdrive, which reduces engine rpm at cruising speed and increases fuel economy. Sure, automatics now come with Overdrive too, but the manual is still the king for fuel economy. This is because of the efficient power transfer of the manual. Also, manuals are more efficient, which means more of the engine's vital horsepower gets to the ground. The slip and slide of an automatic may make for a smooth ride, but it steals horsepower and fuel mileage.
Unlike automatic transmissions, there is no need to worry about coolers to keep the transmission from self-destructing while towing a load. On the down side, the clutch is much the same as your brakes and will wear out over time, requiring maintenance and money for repairs. If your main goal is highway towing, then a manual transmission is a wise choice, but you may want to think twice if all you're doing is commuting.
Gas vs. DieselGasGasoline has one major advantage over diesel: You can always find it no matter where you go. Gas stations seem to have multiplied and taken over nearly every street corner across America, but only a tiny percentage of them carry diesel fuel. That's not to say it can't be found, but you'll have to go searching for it, and you'll always have to plan ahead so as not to get caught on empty.
At the pump, your only concern with unleaded gas is choosing which octane level you want. You would never have to worry about accidentally putting diesel fuel in your tank because the nozzle doesn't fit. However, because the gas filler on diesel trucks is bigger, it is all too possible to accidentally fill it with unleaded, which uses a smaller nozzle. Assuming the engine doesn't simply explode, you'll be spending a considerable amount of money getting the fuel tank drained, and the lines and the engine cleaned.
Gas engines are quieter than their diesel counterparts, they weigh less, and they produce better high-end horsepower. On the other hand, diesel engines produce better low-end torque and often last for upward of 300,000 miles.
Finally, gasoline engines are standard fare in new trucks, while the diesel option typically costs a few thousand extra.
Diesel For pure, brute force, a diesel is hard to beat. Big-block V-8 gas motors do offer more torque than the average small-block, but they still can't compare with the torque of a diesel. Torque, not horsepower, is the key to towing heavy loads over steep grades. In addition, torque means fuel efficiency. Diesel motors typically get better mileage than comparably sized gas units, especially when under load.
While it is true that diesel engines are a little noisier than gas engines, this is not a real concern in modern trucks. The noise and vibration damping in new trucks make most diesel trucks quieter than gas versions of years past. Sure, they're not as quiet as current gas-powered trucks, but you can still carry on a conversation or listen to music undisturbed.
Since the main reason for owning a diesel truck is for towing, the availability of fuel is not as problematic as some might think. On the highway, diesel is easy to find, and around town you're sure to have one or two stations close to home that carry it. In many foreign countries, diesel is easier to find than gas. So if you're planning a trip to Mexico and beyond, diesel is sure to be the better choice.
One down side to diesel is the initial higher cost, but this is offset by the longer life you can expect from the engine and the higher resale value. While it's true that diesel motors weigh more than gas mills, the added towing capacity makes up for it.