Automatic vs. (Stick/Manual/Standard) Transmission for Overlanding

[@kel8026]

I have come to have no strong view either way. I got used to my manual left hand drive car in China which I use to go exploring the country every now and then and decided that was the way I liked it. Then for convenience sake I went to Georgia (the country) to get another vehicle to explore the rest of the world with (well, to cross Asia and Europe and eventually down Africa, and on my list were three requirements: low kms, left hand drive, and manual. Well, I found a station wagon in perfect shape for $2400 that had only done 44,000kms, so off I went with it, despite it being right hand drive and auto. So much for the list. But, I have to say I love it; it has taken me to around thirty countries and has been a saint from the Sahara to the Pamirs - not even one flat tire. I haven't been to any countries that drive on the left side of the road yet, but I enjoy sitting over on the right side looking down at the grass. It actually feels safe and less exposed on that side. And the auto allows me to take photos and eat much more easily. :P Now when I go back to the manual car in China it feels like a bit of a hassle pushing that stick around all the time, but I think I end up loving the vehicles for the adventures they give me and the bond I have with them, regardless of whether they happen to be manual or auto. I would probably go with another auto next time though, but I have to admit, my travel style seems to be a little bit different from a lot of other overlanders - I tend to feel and look like the locals more, not necessarily on purpose, but the car has about the same amount of suff inside it as someone does when they go to work on a normal day and I do not even have one sticker on it. I more or less drive the same roads as any local would. In fact, I have sometimes been asked by border guards if I am a diplomat or something haha. I guess, when it comes to choosing your vehicle, you just go with what naturally feels better for you - in every aspect. Everything seems to have its advantages. In the end, people's vehicles often tend to represent their personalities, and I get more joy out of that rather than trying to fit in and get the badge of being an 'overlander'. It is possible to overland in anything, depending on what you want to do of course. There are definitely places my right hand drive auto station wagon cannot go, but that's never been a problem for me (yet!). Great videos though. They are very informative!

[@adelarsen9776]

For a long term intercontinental travel vehicle the manual gear box is the best for all the reasons mentioned here. Once upon a time I was driving a LC with an Auto Box and an errant stick found its way up over the gearbox between the top of the box and the sheet metal floor and knocked the electrical switch off which selects between Low Range and High Range. Subsequently the vehicle was locked into Low Range and had to be driven like a manual for hours until we could reach the next village. Manual all the way. Bush mechanics across the globe know how to work on them and know what to expect. Great video.

[@mooseantlers8415]

I also prefer a standard transmission for the most part. One thing I think you overlooked is injury. It’s much harder to drive a standard with one foot or one arm.

[@richardweerasinghe3296]

A lot of what you say applies to older autos. In general an auto is gentler on the drivetrain in tougher terrain and more controllable. So although the manual transmission might be easier to repair you are more likely to break a drivetrain component which can strand you in tough terrain. Pros and cons for both.

[@foihdzas]

Remember, his (and overlander style) is to take the easiest way around an obstacle, not rock bouncing and beating up the vehicle.

[@richardweerasinghe3296]

@@foihdzas I am an overlander. I’m not saying auto is better. I’m just saying there are pros and cons to both sides. Nobody goes out to break anything. It can happen.

[@mikehagan4320]

Another Good video! You can change gears with a failed slave cylinder. W/O using the Clutch. You use your Engines RPM's. Rev it just like normal and push the stick through the sincronizer and it will fall into gear if your RPM's are correct. Remember you Rev the engine up to Down shift. And go down with your with Engine RPM'S to Shift up to the next higher gear. Just don't use the Clutch Try it sometime, it's a good Skill to help you out of a Jam. Highway Tractor trailer truck drivers do this everyday. Though the transmissions are somewhat different. They work the same as far as changing gears. I had a 1995 Ford P/U that lost a slave cylinder about every 30 k miles. So unfortunately I have some experience with this. Also I am a 3.5 Million Mile Truck Driver. Best Wishes! M.H.

[@merhaba8]

If you asked me that question about three years ago I would’ve agreed with you completely because of nearly 50yrs of only driving manual, including as a professional truck driver, but after having a auto 4x4 ute/pickup for the last three years I wouldn’t go back to manual!! The modern autos are so good it surprised me, even with down hill braking especially in a off road situation with descent control. As far as reliability goes, I live in a forestry/farming area where the utes are mostly auto and get thrashed by drivers who don’t own them but they have very little problems with the transmissions.

[@mojavedesertsonorandesert9531]

I'm basically your age and a retired trucker now for over a year, I have a Toyota Hilux, 33 yrs, standard, did eventually but a Automatic after 5 yrs got rid of it and keep my standard Hilux. As he has pointed out, I have had those experiences out here Death Valley/ lMojave Desert and if I would have had an automatic I would have been seriously stuck in some remote areas. My old Hilux has saved me many times!

[@SimplyCarReviews]

@@mojavedesertsonorandesert9531 we don't get the Hilux here but I too prefer manual transmission after driving an auto Tacoma TRD sport 4x4 I ended up purchasing an offroad with a manual as it has better gearing (4.30 vs 3.91) and having full control of my gears was paramount.

[@MrNiccholas]

I Love my Manual! to your point, I recently took a long driving trip around the US and while I was in Tulsa OK my clutch basically went out. It wasn't completely dead, but something in the clutch, slave and master cylinder was messed up so I couldn't get it into a gear if I stopped in neutral. I had to get rolling then float it into gear. I was able to limp all the way back to Denver (about 700 miles) and my mechanic who I trusted to get it fixed! no way I would have done that in an automatic!

[@don7294]

I drove manual for 50+ years and in many countries but, I have been happy with my auto Landcruisers that I have driven through hell and back without any problems. Maintain your vehicle and it will take care of you. The older I get the more I like auto transmissions. We explored Kenya/Tanzania in an Mitsubishi with auto trans(we were supposed to pick up a Landcruiser...). We only drove around 4,000 miles on that trip but the Mitsubishi was a very capable truck and never let us down even after I accidentally drove over a large rock that rolled down right in front of us from a cliff. We had one flat from a nail we picked at the mechanic's lot. Some mechanics in a small village fixed the rock damage to the skid plate, brake line, tire!! and exhaust. Local mechanics can fix just about anything in Africa and our guys worked out in the dirt between cinder blocks for lifts. Just amazingly nice people everywhere we went.

[@foihdzas]

Manual is my preferred driving mode. I bought a Wrangler, because we needed an suv, and it's the only one you can get in a standard where I live. I definitely feel more connected to the vehicle and road with a manual. Great video material.

[@mark2073]

I drove through downtown Vancouver in my Cherokee without a clutch when the cylinder blew out

[@undergroundexplorersoverland]

For remote overlanding, a manual transmission definitely makes sense for all the reasons you've outlined. However, for general off-roading we really prefer an automatic. Crawling with one foot on the gas and one on the brake makes things so controllable and climbing obstacles is easier as well. What we really want is the control of a manual with the convenience two footed driving ability of an automatic. Some of the new dual clutch and advanced automatics provide this but their availability is poor for off-road vehicles.

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

I agree 100%, and you've just made a really good distinction between remote overlanding and off-roading!

[@asaleemeadows]

All valid points. I’ve had 4 JKs, 2 manual and 2 autos. Currently my jkur is a manual. But i ordered a new diesel JL (yes i know your opinion on diesels) but I’m not planning on any out of North America trips, and the dieselsonly come with the 8speed auto. Someone else mentioned other drivers being able to drive, like my wife. After the bad luck i had on my 2012 automatic i found 2 2014s that had the colors i wanted. Difference being transmission and minor options. I wanted the manual and I asked her if she would drive it and she said she was sure she could. After having this jeep for almost 6.5 years, she’s only driven it 5 times. Now with the ‘12 auto she drove it more in 2 years than this one.

[@asaleemeadows]

I also thought with the manual i wouldn’t have to worry about being stuck in an odd spot in limp mode like i was in Moab when the fuse box shorted out on me. But once on a home trip from Michigan to Maryland my manual Jeep’s battery died on me, and even though i was able to jump start it, I still was only able to drive it up to 2nd gear. Manuals JKs can be in limp mode too. So again more computer control even with a manual.

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

When staying in North America, I think the diesel is an excellent choice, and if I were staying here I'd be selling my kidneys to get one right away! :)

[@asaleemeadows]

@@TheRoadChoseMe you could probably get a lot of money for just one Kidney :)

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

Probably, but still not enough to get a diesel Gladiator! :D

[@fredfabris7187]

As a Jeep transmission tech I need to correct the statement where you say the lock up to converter doesn’t lock up 100%. they absolutely do have the ability to totally and completely lock when it’s appropriate to do so. Also jeep automatic transmissions typically when they fail fail in a limp in mode allowing you forward motion and reverse motion. Typically in a gear that will give you 40 miles an hour. It is also true and a valid comment that they can fail and leave you stuck in park however they have a cable you pull that disengages the park mechanism so the vehicle can be moved. I agree that being able to push start your car can be a huge advantage. I think in general I would pick a manual but I’ve been off Road in both and there are definitely times when an automatic is nice especially in a tricky near the cliff edge maneuvering. I think it’s also valuable to point out this modern jeep automatic especially in the JK and LJ Are super reliable.

[@garyray]

I think the simplicity point is the key reason. The JK auto has manual shifting for down shifting (learned that reading the manual while the brakes cooled in Guatemala). Cost is a real thing in the new vehicle market, but cost is usually less an issue with a used vehicle. When shopping for a used JKU Rubicon, the options in the US tended to be stripped down (off roaders) or fully loaded (for a few thousand more). Not much in between. I ended up with a lot of dumb options I would have never paid for, and at the time I was interested in a manual -- but it was only in the stripped down versions. While I'm at it, the pedal box in the JK is horribly claustrophobic with the manual, and I was a little relieved to have the auto (which has a robust history going back to Daimler). Anyway, that first point of simplicity is super strong and you've convinced me just on that one.

[@LocoCoyote]

another thought: in low traction situations (think sand, mud) the automatic will be much smoother and allow you to move forward without breaking traction (by pressing the clutch to change gears).

[@michaelm4514]

Have auto taco right now. Going back to manual. Had a manual civic coupe. That was fun car to drive. Manual jeep next.

[@Rebel.Matt555]

I had a manual for nearly 8 years between my LJ and JK. It was great to have during my 20's and I totally agree with everything you pointed out. However, with the addition of my lovely wife who hates driving manual, as well as the many trips into the mountains and getting stuck behind cattle drives (I think I posted a previous comment about that) I recently sold the JK for an auto Gladiator. I'm not sure how I will like it, we'll see. Final point, if I'm out with the wife or other overlanders, if something happens to me where sone one else needs to drive my rig, I feel a little better knowing that someone can drive me back in an emergency

[@henrycolestage7650]

As a long distance overlander and an off road racer, I absolutely agree. In my big Hummer H1 desert racer, I used a bullet proof 4L80 autobox with manual shift valve body and the electronics removed (you have to manually shift it into each gear and it WILL NOT actually auto shift). But for overlanding in remote and underdeveloped areas, manual boxes are the way to go. And for the same reason petrol engines are good choices; the average bush mechanic can beat it into submission enough to get you going again. The Jeep manual 6 speed is a great gearbox and fun to drive. I'm currently building a custom Land Rover Defender with a BMW 2.8L six cylinder petrol engine and the BMW 6 speed manual box for overlanding across Africa on a year-long expedition. So I'm putting my money where my mouth is!

[@carcynogen]

Another great video Dan! I prefer a manual as well. I had to search for months to find one. I've never owned an auto and when the day comes when we can't find manuals any more I hope my Wrangler is still with me! :)

[@bryaneck4537]

Every day is leg day for me too. Good reasoning.

[@gettingby]

I agree with you on most, but...Car Talk, a long running American radio show on NPR used to laugh at people who would use engine breaking. They would ask, "Would you rather wear down brake pads, or the engine?". I will grant you that you don't want to overheat the break fluids, but that takes more time in modern cars than most drivers use their car for. Spot on for your other points.

[@questioner1596]

One of the benefits is bump-starting (starting the car by rolling it and letting the clutch engage once moving fast enough to turn the engine). If you have a bad starter motor or slightly low battery, it can help you out of a bad situation. It won't work if your battery is completely flat, because it still needs enough juice to run the fuel pump and ignition system. I've used this once on a backroad I'd pulled onto to look at the stars, and had the foresight to park at the top of a hill. The battery was slightly low and not enough to run the starter motor. I was able to roll it down the hill and bump start it, which gave me enough time to drive to the highway before the battery was drained again. I was able to get a boost from someone driving by.

[@rblbatb]

I would have voted automatic before watching your video. But, you bring up some great points for those overlanding internationally. Lots of great points I have never considered/encountered.

[@94520shatto]

. We were playing boat, driving in a normally dry Arizona river but after running over the tree trunk that got jammed up between the engine and body I stopped. When I tried to go, the Jeep was dead. My friends and I couldn't find why it wouldn't start, so $700.00 later the dealer diagnosed the shift cable snapped inside it's housing, so the automatic transmission said it was doing this and the gearshift said it was doing that and the computer said screw this and went on strike and shut everything off. .... I used to show-off by shifting through all eight gears (four up four down) on our Series II Land Rover (1960s version) without using the clutch. I could also do it in our M38A1 (military Jeep) so, having experienced every problem Dan said about push-starting and getting somewhere where there was help when the battery or starter failed is true. Except the Land Rover had a hand crank. Another thing with the modern Jeep, and any other vehicle is that it will run as long as there is electricity so when you clean the vehicle, blow the dust and crud out of the alternator, and change the brushes at 100K miles to save hundreds on a replacement. I am happy with my 2012 Rubicon because all I need do is point it and go, and descending the steepest hill is easy, I push a button and it will hold a speed slower than a stroll, a mosey, a sashay, a slow walk and I don't have to use the brakes at all. But having the Jeep do everything for me is kinda boring.

[@jelledofferhoff843]

You can float gears if their is something wrong with the clutch, it takes a bit of skill but its is not that hard to get used to.

[@Fe_lix]

A bit of skills or a persuasive movement xD

[@franksteenhuisen7223]

Agree, have had a clutch master cylinder fail on me and still drove for 1hr30 back home. Shifting gears all the way up to 100km/h and even went through town xD The stop signs weren't much fun tho...

[@DirtShy]

I myself had to do the same, with some skills, we can up shift and downshift with no clutch at all using just the rpm. Just got to get it moving first.

[@blurglide]

I had the clutch pedal break on my Jeep XJ. Still didn't leave me stranded, and you DON'T have to leave it in first gear. With careful rev-matching, you can still shift. Until I could get to a mechanic, I'd just do 1-3-5 shifts to minimize shifting while still allowing my full range of speed. There was a little grinding, but nothing terrible. Stops were terrible though.

[@chrisfusco1108]

I recently found a 2 door 2018 JK with 6k miles, Sahara for $23k. The dealer said they couldn't sell it because it was manual, win!

[@mojavedesertsonorandesert9531]

Nice score!!!🍺

[@daveweber9737]

I've been a professional truck driver the past 30+ years. Shifting gears all day. My personal truck I drive is an auto trans Tacoma. Granted I'm not going to the hinterlands and don't have to think about if the mechanics know how to fix it, but I just can't make myself shift gears on my days off. It's anathema to my off time existence.

[@errhka]

I love my manuals for my Hondas, just not my Jeep. I can crawl up stuff low and slow with the auto and not stress my drivetrain, drive for hours and hours and hours in traffic, and 'push start' it with a 100 dollar jump start battery pack in case of a dead battery. In the words of Marie Kondo * points at manual jeep * "this does not bring joy"

[@mark2073]

I was way down in Baja California and at a gas station was a guy from Idaho in an automatic Chevy whose starter was toast. I couldn't even tow him to the town because he had no steering or brakes with the engine off. In the end he needed a 200 km tow into town.

[@joelletendre1011]

Steering and brakes would still work, they would just be arm strong.

[@Onward4x4]

I dunno...I started out my driving experience with a manual-I agree that at first the connection with the vehicle was fun and the driving experience was more intense but that got old pretty fast and then it was an ordeal to have to change gear... you mentioned zoning out while driving: it's awesome. Listening to music and looking at thee scenery passing by puts me a zen zone where I feel just totally relaxed. Granted, I don't feel connected to the vehicle as much as I would but the computer will let me know if something is going wrong or needs changing or whatnot. So yeah... automatic for me all the way. :)

[@davidhays7749]

I've really enjoyed watching this video and reading the comments. In the UK manuals are the norm and autos are not as common. That said they are slowly becoming more popular. I personally prefer a good old fashioned manual for all the reasons stated in the video.

[@alphatruckhouse8223]

Thanks for you accurate input . I have no idea why anyone would buy a Tesla , all the highend sports cars are now paddles ?? Nothing there for me . I bought the last 2018 Ram 5500 , no trucks are being built in the USA like this anymore that have a 6 spd man for my build , I enjoy driving !! @ 65yrs young. Have a Happy Holiday Season ~peace~

[@frank_jk]

Manual all the way. I just wish there were more options in the US. We’re basically limited to the Wrangler/Gladiator and Tacoma.

[@NielsQuev]

@The road chose me , thanks for your tips ! Technically, automobiles were invented 250 years ago !

[@brycedunlap]

Due to the decreasing availability of manuals in a lot of vehicles, I seen reports where the manual version of a vehicle can actually cost more sometimes as they arent produced as much.

[@mojavedesertsonorandesert9531]

The few they make are not like the old ones, Im glad I have keep my 33 yr old standard Hilux and would not trade it in for the new stuff. Did have a chevy rig automatic for 5 yrs ended up selling it. Old habits are hard to break!

[@adventureafrika]

I do prefer the manual box rather than Auto - more control especially in sand, but for rocks auto would be better

[@MarkRose1337]

You forgot the other benefit of a manual: double the exercise while driving. But the reason I prefer manual is also because it's more fun.

[@martinbguk]

I drive Auto as a manual clutch eventually gives my back some real pain issues due to twisting when pressing the clutch. However, all you points about remote travel and failure modes are very valid. I'd still take an auto because if i'm in pain nobody is going to enjoy the trip ;-)

[@questioner1596]

As much as I prefer manuals, modern automatics do lock the torque converter enough and have enough extra gears (8, 9, 10 or even infinite speeds) to be more fuel efficient. They are also more likely to have cylinder deactivation on the automatic versions (which I'd prefer to avoid the complexity of), and this helps the automatics be more efficient through computer control. Manuals are often no longer available on the base model, so no longer the cheapest option. For example, the Toyota Tacoma's base four-cylinder engine is automatic only, so you have to spend thousands more for the V6 to get the manual transmission. Similar with the Honda Accord, Genesis G70 (though both of these are dropping manual completely for 2021) and Dodge Challenger. The Genesis & Dodge are also AWD in the base (cheaper) trims, and the manual versions are RWD only.

[@AlexStrugariu]

You of course make some very good pointa in favor of manual transmissions. I just wanted to say that on my vehicle (LR Disco 3) with an auto, you can manually exit from Park from outside the car. Also, when an error occurs, it remains stuck in 3rd gear, so you can limp for some distance. To my knowledge, it also locks up the torque converter in every gear, although it's still not as economical as the manual equipped vehicle. Mine's a diesel, so even when fully loaded (3.2 tonnes), I still get an average of 10 l/100 km on a long overland trip. Mine also alows me to change gears manually whenever I want, which does help a lot on twisty mountain roads and offroad. I'm guessing this is the case for most modern autos. Nevertheless, manuals do make better sense for such travel. A friend lost his MB Sprinter cluthch in sand dunes in Morocco. His friend with a Patrol towed him to a garage near Merzouga, and they put a new clutch in his van over night! :)

[@asadulmakki1]

As guy who disable from birth i don't really get to choose whether or not i want to drive manual, Cause being disable you need to have a specific driving license that in most cases only allowed you to drive an automatic vehicle, Which is why i drive an automatic vehicle but overtime i learned that it's not that bad it's still gives you plenty of control in my personal opinion I can actually drive a manual vehicle btw i just can't do it for long

[@momentsbymagnus]

I agree totally agree with you! I have had many of both but manual is my choice for sure.

[@welovenature360]

Very good points, and I agree with all of them. But auto also has a lot of advantages that would be nice to include in the article. On my 4.0 v6 auto I get the same gas mileage you are getting (a lot depends on driving style and speed too. In sand and Rick climbing the auto has the clear advantage as it does not roll back, and it climbs carefully on the rocks without throwing rocks out and damaging the track. We love to travel to enjoy nature, and find that a manual car demands attention all the time (especially at slow speeds, clutch in to avoid stalling while trying to move slightly forward or back for a better virew of the wildlife for example), so the auto makes it far easier to move very slowly while focusing on the nature and the road, and letting the car look after itself. For maintenance I do much of the maintenance on my own cars, and find doing the clutch kit every 100k kilometers quite a pain. An auto gearbox last far longer without any need for replacing parts that break or wear (as a manual). Simple regular oil change on an auto is all that is needed. Not being able to push start an auto is a serious problem, and agree with you totally. I actually carry a spare starter and have 2 batteries in my car to address the potential problems that brings.

[@welovenature360]

Closing a gear in an auto can be a problem on some gearbox which are too intelligent and override your gear selection. True. But my auto does not have that problem, and it stays in 1st gear all the way down a hil (low or high range) and so can ride on engine compression no problem, saving the breaks, etc.

[@matthewshealy9513]

I can't wait to swap my auto for a 6 speed on my truck personally. Although it's auto now, I prefer standard definitely. Like you said, It's about the enjoyment being in control of the vehicle a standard transmission gives you.

[@paachi]

Good commentary..and completely agree on driver engagement and control for a manual. In addition to the comments below, I also feel autos are a bit more robust and capable of handling more torque than manuals. The downside is that autos have more parasitic losses than manuals.

[@senditkevin]

Yes you can change gears with a standard trans I blew out a slave and used the starter motor to get going and then drove home.

[@2manyhobbies76]

I really enjoy your channel. One thing that nobody talks about is clothing. Of course it is dependent on the climate(s) you'll be traveling through. I would like to hear your thoughts on what you pack, dual use items, layering, and cleaning, etc...

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

For sure, I'll do a video on that shortly. For cleaning, see my video on hygiene where I talk about laundry. kzbin.info/www/bejne/lXLTm5KIaMt-ldU

[@JamesMEsler]

A professional jeepster.. thank you

[@allenw969]

I prefer a manual transmission. However there is one perhaps unlikely scenario, in that two feet are required to operate the three pedals for a manual transmission, but one foot can operate the two pedals of an automatic transmission. I badly injured an ankle once and was unable to use my right foot on the pedals for months, but simply switched to using the left foot for both accelerator pedal and brake pedal. if I had also needed to operate a clutch pedal, I would have been unable to drive.

[@W2IRT]

If I were leaving North America and touring other continents I wouldn't want an automatic. But me personally, I will never take it outside of the US/Canada, and the advantages of the current Mopar 8 speed automatic are pretty strong. I have the Pentastar/8-speed combination in my Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and I find it an ideal pairing. When I get off the paved highways, not having to bother with gear selection is a positive, and I can paddle-shift manually as the need arises. Also, automatics are fantastic for hill climbs when you're in a long line of vehicles. Manuals, however, are indeed much better for the trip back down. Do manual gearbox Jeeps have hill descent control? I honestly don't know, and that one feature is just wonderful in certain circumstances. On the other hand, both my wife and I have been driving manual gearbox cars and trucks since the 70s/80s and they are certainly more fun to drive. And if you ensure your kids drive stick, they won't be able to use their phones to text whilst driving -- win-win! but buying a manual trans vehicle used means you're going to be on the hook for a new clutch at some point in that vehicle's life, so consider that the offset for the upfront $1500 premium for the automatic.

[@knowingwhattimeitis]

All of my road cars I had / have is manual transmission. One other benefit you forgot to mention of a manual transmission is how you can rock yourself back and forth out of mud or thick sand. However, you have to experience the capability of an automatic Jeep Rubicon 4,1:1 ratio in extreme off-road hill-climb and hill descend control especially with an un-braked loaded trailer behind to really appreciate an automatic gearbox. When descending a steep hill while worrying about an un-braked trailer behind that might jack-knife or trying to overtake you, you can only appreciate how smooth an automatic gearbox can rev-match between gears without upsetting the traction. You simply cannot be that smooth with a manual transmission. For me it was amazing how a vehicle is capable of doing all of that without using any pedals. All I use was the gear lever to change gears, depending on how fast or slow I chose to descend. Furthermore, the automatic JK has a limp-mode of 2nd gear that you can use to get to your destination. I can't see myself having a JK in manual. Manual Jeep JK's gear levers are also infamous for falling out of gear on extreme corrugated roads from what I've seen on some videos. In remote Africa, there are always donkeys and horses that can help you out to the nearest town :-) ...and you can have a replacement box within 5 days shipped.

[@joelletendre1011]

I love your videos Dan, but I am going to point out a few things, and respectfully disagree with you. First of all most people pack a scan tool with them for engine and transmission, so finding someone to diagnose is a non issue. An auto will very rarely leave you stranded. Even with multiple sensor and or solenoid failure, they will default to 2nd gear. The epa fuel economy rating for your Jeep is the same for the standard or the auto. Most autos from the last 10 -15 years have full manual shifting. This bypasses all the auto controls and locks it in the gear you select. I can, and do manually shift from 1-6th and back down. Most will not upshift. I can bounce mine off the rev limiter all day long. Off road the auto is much better especially in things like sand. The downshift is seamless. With a manual, the gear you start in is the gear you are stuck with. Going up a muddy or really sandy hill, as soon as you clutch, you have lost all forward momentum. Slave and clutch master cylinder failure will allow your clutch to still engage, but most clutch failures will leave you completely stranded, with a shredded disc and zero forward momentum. As a 30 year vehicle tech, I have had way more disabled vehicles towed into the shop with manual and clutch failures than catastrophic auto failures. I do love manuals, but mainly in my sports cars, and even then a dual clutch auto with paddle shifters is hard to beat. :)

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

Thanks for all the real-world input, much appreciated!

[@joelletendre1011]

@@TheRoadChoseMe Much of my opinion, and positives on autos, and much of your opinion and negatives on autos, is highly dependent on the particular brand/model of auto. Some I wouldn't own, others like the ZF 6 speed in our Rovers are brilliant. On another note, how does your 6 speed shift from 1-2nd in the cold? I have had a few customer complaints of very hard 1-2 shifts when really cold(-20).

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

The points I raise in the video aren't really about any particular brand of auto, I think they're more just shortcomings of autos in general (can't push start, harder to fix, etc.) Mine has always shifted great, though now it's getting on in years and miles the syncro on 2nd isn't what it used to be, and going into 2nd when it's cold sometimes crunches a little bit. A transmission oil change fixes it right up.

[@richardcontinijr9661]

I love a manual transmission and in tractor trailers it's even better because you can float gears. I'm on the hunt for a new edge Mustang GT with a manual right now. Most of the ones I've come across are automatic. I'm just not sure about a manual for off-road. I have a feeling I'd end up burning the clutch out trying to get out of a hole. I'd hate for the first clutch I burn up to be off-road.

[@canyonoverland5003]

Hey, I saw my name at the end. Cool!

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

Thanks for the support!!

[@owenh727]

Most auto transmissions have some form of vent/valve to relieve excessive pressures inside the trans. However if you do too deep underwater water can find it’s way into the trans. FYI water and auto trans fluid don’t mix well

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

You can extend the breather hose so it's higher up, which I did for my diffs, transfer case and standard (manual) trans.

another millennial here loving manual cars. Simpler, cheaper and more fun :D

[@happycamper1687]

Great video Dan. I think that your philosophy about the simplicity of manual versus automatic can also be extended to hybrid electric vehicles such as the Jeep Wrangler 4XE - that added complexity wouldn't make any sense for international overlanding at all. Talk about remote mechanics seeing something that they have never seen before... that is purely a first world solution for now.

[@MikeR55]

I prefer a manual trans for the fun factor and driving experience. My last 4x4 was a Ford Ranger FX4 with a 5 speed manual and it was fun but then I started having back issues that made clutching painful and had to sell it. I just priced a new Tacoma and the auto is actually lower cost than a manual now.

[@duane4972]

You should practice shifting with out the clutch, it's not that hard to shift up or down. If you practice before the clutch goes out you will be ready to go !

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

I know exactly what you mean - it comes out of gear easily, and I enjoy double-clutching and re-matching, but I chicken out trying to put it back in gear when it crunches! I just can't be that mean to her!

[@mark2073]

I found it depends on the vehicle whether you can do this

[@W2IRT]

@@TheRoadChoseMe If you can't find 'em grind 'em! It's really easy to upshift without using the clutch, but downshifting without it is a little more challenging, and is something I practice regularly on my Tacoma pickup and in my wife's Honda Accord. I taught her how to float gears and she was utterly amazed. Now that's the only way she drives!

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

@Peter Dougherty - I remember my Dad showing me back in the day, and I play with it sometimes - I love when I rev match and it almost goes into gear by itself. But like I said, I'm no good!

[@questioner1596]

If your transmission has synchros, it will do some damage to shift without the clutch pedal (proper rev-matching helps, but it's still hard on them). Older cars, or transport trucks with non-synchro transmissions work very well this way, and it does no damage if properly rev-matched.

[@essexlexington712]

Auto theft deterrent to a degree. At least in North America I feel! Like you, I prefer to 'row' my gears as well!

[@dwightk.schruteiii8454]

Wow. The mountain reason got me by surprised. Im getting the new bronco and i dont want to pay extra for the auto. But im hesitating because “the word” is that auto is safer going up mountains. But what you say makes sense that standard is safer.

[@andrewfoto]

Thanks for mentioning finding the sweet spot for fuel economy and using the engine compression to control speed with out just reaching for the breaks. I also agree that manual transmissions are more fun to drive. For a future video I'd like to hear what you think about traveling conspicuous vs. inconspicuous. For example I have traveled in a mostly stock Xterra that no one looks at or talks to me about and also drive an old JDM Land Cruiser that I get lots of looks and comments on. What experiences have you had or heard of with regards to unusual vehicles or graphics on vehicles when traveling abroad?

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

I'll make that a future video for sure!

[@robertpanick2660]

I have to admit I have always enjoyed driving a manual transmission. But there most vehicles here in the US aren't even offered with a manual transmission. I wouldn't also discount some of the very cool tricks that automatic transmissions can do including hill descent controls.

[@leeloo21231234]

The classic automatics with converter made after 1990 are extremely reliable. Very few exceptions/specific models had some issues. The ones after 2000 are also very good off-road. At very low speeds the control is better than at manual, and also they are better on sand in general. True that the engine break is not so effective, but on something that has low gears, this is an nonissue. With an oil change every 60k km, most likely an automatic will outlast the rest of the vehicle. The big issue is that you can't push start a vehicle with an automatic. That seems to me the biggest drawback for long term travelling. I would be more worried about that than a failure of the automatic gearbox itself. Any issue with ignition in an automatic vehicle leads to a tow. That being said, I am driving automatic off-road vehicles for some time now, and I will stick with them. That fact that I don't have to worry about shifting gears gives me more chances to enjoy the view or pay more attention to the obstacles if it is a dangerous road.

[@thomasmullins1783]

The only disagreement I've had with you so far: automatic transmissions can manually be locked up. Every automatic vehicle ive owned, ive been able to lock up the torque converter whenever i wanted. If your automatic doesn't have that, you can almost certainly upgrade the transmission to lock up. And , almost all autos in trucks after like 2007 give the option to select a gear. I can in my 07 Toyota, i can in my grandpas 2016 chevy dmax 2500, I can in my friends 08 land rover. But stick shifts still have a lot of advantages

[@Mr.Engineer.]

Going in to this video I am very biased towards manual gearboxes. I think you will end up with a manual as well as you previously have mention you got a six speed manual in the Jeep but also curious to what "benefits" an auto can have in an overland rig. Time to pop some popcorn 🍿

[@landyandy4x4]

Yes when's the new book out?

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

Any day now! I'll do a video when it is!

[@IvanHausVonSpreitler]

I think I saved around $3000 usd on my Toyota Tacoma by getting a manual. Definitely better in the mountain and more fun.

[@robertvoss9111]

Thanks for the video dan! Do you think you could make a video about visas and applying for them on the road, as well as choosing in which country you're going to apply for a particular visa etc

[@aziazeeb6883]

I think that depends on where you from .... i am from india ... and it’s gonna be different for me ... if you are from 1 world country, then it’s gonna be so easy for you guys...!

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

Yes, that video is high on my list to film soon!

[@defendermodsandtravels]

You are spot on with your advice. On the one occasion I went into the Sahara my starter motor failed (sod's law). I had companions who got me started with a double tow. If I had had an automatic the vehicle would have been abandoned in the dunes :-( Regarding engine braking, on a recent trip I was doing descents in low range 2nd, engine screaming, and I was still getting brake fade. With an auto it would have been much worse. The advice here is v. sound.

[@timgardner3130]

I'm with you I prefer a manual transmission. They also a low your engine to run cooler

[@Millsy.g]

I think I disagree with you on this one. Automatic transmission reliability is a bit like your argument on only bringing one spare vs 2 in the past. The quality has improved so much that the chance of a breakdown is so remote. You are probably much more likely to smoke a clutch than have an automatic break down. And as for off-roading, the amount of control you have in an auto is as good, possibly higher than a manual. I can absolutely crawl as slow as I want in 1st low without having to feather a clutch pedal, and downhill, I have -never- had it kick out of a gear if I've selected 1st or 2nd in low range. It might do it at 5000 rpm or something to protect the engine, but man have things gone horribly wrong at that point if you are 5k rpm in 1st low. Then there is the tedium of going through stop & go traffic having to shift gears and clutch in/out all the time. (give me one of those adaptive cruise systems any day).

[@W2IRT]

I strongly agree. I live in Northern New Jersey, and 95% of my driving is in heavy interstate traffic. My current Grand Cherokee is the first automatic I've had in about 15 years, and only one automatic before that. I'd so much better to drive in traffic than our two sticks. But when the road is clear, and especially if there's no asphalt involved, gimme a manual for sheer joy of driving.

[@BlueCollarDIY]

Love your channel. Do you have videos on your trip to Argentina?

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

I didn't film that one, no. I did blog the entire time, so written articles and hundreds of photos - here's a good place to start theroadchoseme.com/expedition-overview

[@BlueCollarDIY]

@@TheRoadChoseMe Thanks, I'll check it out. BTW, I'm not sure if you're aware of it, but many companies that sell containers on Craigslists and FB are using the picture of your jeep in a container in their advertisements.

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

I've seen that, thanks! Apparently they love my photo

[@LocoCoyote]

One issue: most overland capable vehicles with an automatic transmission will have some kind of hill decent control that will keep those downhill gear changes from happening.

[@markjansen24]

The ability to bump start the vehicle, I even had to bump start a diesel Hilux in Asmara, 7600 ft elevation, being self reliant even if you can call help is way better in my opinion.

[@traveller9625]

I still can't believe Jeep does not want to sponsor you. I agree with all your reasons for manual

[@artemakulov1660]

That pretty much sums it up for me as well, but I think one needs to look at the specific vehicle they're choosing for overlanding, as not all transmissions are created equal. Some automatics, even older ones, can be really stout, sometimes even more so than the manuals that came in that particular vehicle. Jeeps for example, I've witnessed two manual transmission failures, one in a CJ-7, and one in a newer Patriot, but have not personally seen any issues what so ever with their automatics. Plus automatics are a lot more tolerant of abuse and incorrect driving technique, which might be a consideration if buying used without reliable history on that vehicle. In the case of those two, could have been driver error on their respective owners part, but nonetheless, I say look at the particular vehicle you want, and research the specific transmissions that they are available with, and make a decision from there. Completely agree on the "feel", fun, and control part, can't beat a manual there.

[@ryanmoore686]

MPG would be the only reason for me to manual. Most my vehicle have been manual, but at times its nice not to have it, ill keep manual to my bikes and cars.

[@nas9071]

Good video as always

[@TheCls63]

Auto transmissions today can be just as efficient as a manual car

[@marcohenar2516]

As efficient as reliable

[@billynunns]

My jeep has the ability to manually change what gears i want and it is an automatic

[@asianrice02]

Did you have to read your for the 33s?

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

Regear? no, mine are the stock 4.10s from the Rubicon. I talk at length about it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mH-6aGCkeNqJo9k

[@oldretireddude]

Do you see a time when there won't be any new vehicles that are useable as an overlanding vehicle in less developed countries from a repairability standpoint? I would think we're getting close.

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

I think there will be an awkward time when new gas/diesel vehicles are illegal in developed countries (around 2030), but electric cars won't be good enough to take remote in Africa or Central Asia.... so we'll HAVE to use older vehicles for those trips, for a time.

[@andrewfaukner9286]

You've talked a little about "world vehicles", other than Land Rovers and Jeeps, what do you consider as world vehicles?

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

Land Cruiser, Land Rover, Hilux, Pajero, etc. There are many!

[@Mr.Engineer.]

If your clutch wear out you wont go far, but if you just can't use it like in your example you can still drive and change gear, you just can't stop beacuse then you will stall the engine. I lost my slave cylinder once in my HJ60 with a 5 speed manual. I waited until late night so I wouldn't have to deal with much trafic and drove almost 300km without using the clutch. You force it out of gear and rev match it to slam it into gear. Rev match engine to road/wheel speed and the gear ratio you want to select. Easy peasy lemon squeezy 😅

[@silviogentile5622]

Incredibly well stated, completely agree!

[@guledhirsi4279]

It’s true manuals are way to go

[@SStarwind]

I honestly feel like automatics are a much more logical choice (especially as a Subaru owner). They're easier to drive, no less reliable, they don't need low range, they're more comfortable, and a lot of times they have a taller top gear. That being said, and this is extremely important for a lot of us, they're less romantic. That takes a lot out of the experience, in my opinion.

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

You don't feel like the points I mentioned are significant? (possible to push start, easier to repair, possible to drive it even with a failure, better hill descent control)

[@SStarwind]

@@TheRoadChoseMe They are totally significant. Especially roll starts and computer issues. I think I just have a bit more faith in modern computers than a lot of people. I can only speak for the experiences that I've actually HAD. All of the concerns against having an automatic I've never actually experienced, and I do enjoy the reduced driver fatigue of an automatic on long trips. That being said, while I complain about having a manual transmission every time I go on a trip, or get a technical hill or traffic, and wish I had an automatic for those situations, I still drive a stick shift. lol

[@Ed-jg3ud]

It’s a shame that so few cars any more offer a standard. Hopefully segments like a Jeep will never abandon it. But then again 30yrs from now electric vehicles will certainly kill off transmissions fully

[@LocoCoyote]

I think a lot sooner than 30 years....

[@rossh985]

Manual all the way for my jk wrangler as its so much more fun but for my every day work vehicle I choose auto.

[@kisbushcraftdownunder]

Both transmissions have good and bad points modern autos have down hill assist and tend to soak up shock loads on other components and can handle water crossing better (no friction plate to get wet ) a leaky engine main bearing seal can have a clutch slipping very fast, the manual can be used to bump start the engine if the starter fails and you are on a high traction surface (try a diesel on a gravel road 😩)If having a auto helps you pick a better line of travel and lets you crawl over obstacles without wheel spin its a win

[@L-lp9fl]

You can be towed as well, had to get A low bed for my Merc at night and it was rather expensive!

[@mr_outlived]

Starting car by pushing.. you technicly can but shoudn't do it, unless you have chain for your camshafts, otherewise you can destroy your timing (and whole engine with it) if your timing belt jumps.

[@aasphaltmueller5178]

never heard ot that - push starting cars is something done regularly. Many an African does not even repair his starter, there are always people around

[@TheRoadChoseMe]

I met so, so many people in Africa that didn't even have starters. They sold them years ago, and have been getting around ever since without one!

[@yorkchris10]

The new automatics quite often get better mileage and they have multiple clutches and ability limp. Ozzy's have a lot of experience making auto.'s work in tough environment like sand which can kill an auto.. I practiced rev matching on my manual LC. No need to clutch.

[@overlandsubaruinternationa2378]

you have better millage ratio compare to me forester sh 2009 no turbo 14L/100km

[@cayman9873]

Your assuming that because you said your jeep has a 6 speed trans means something. There are 6 speed manuals and 6 speed autos. I prefer manuals. They are way more rugged. And if you bump something under the car you dont lose 4 gallons of auto trans fluid.

[@BittnerBuddenbrock]

One reason in favor of a manual gearbox is the fact that should your wheels be really stuck the engine might not have enough torque at low RPM to turn the wheels! With a manual one can raise the RPM to a range where the engine has more power and then let the clutch slide a bit more - don't fry it though. With automatic it is VERY risky to rev the engine and then slam it in Drive! VERY hard/damaging to all components of your drivetrain!

[@kadmow]

??.... Yes many Auto Boxes will stay in whatever gear you put them in... Yes mine will bounce off redline in first gear. It is true historically a lot of Auto 4x4's had less "engine braking" in L1 than an equivalent manual. - (not sure if it is the case these days of "smart" lock-up torque converters ) The fail "safe" arguments for a manual are all-compelling in remote and non-1st world - An Auto gearbox with problems needs a friend, a manual can limp home (often). Off-the-beaten-track, fully mechanical beats hightech.

[@peterharris3181]

I agree manual is the way to go, but almost every new automatic gets better gas mileage than their manual counterpart now. If you’re looking at older vehicles then gas mileage might be an advantage, but not if you’re looking at more modern vehicles.

[@JimmyDevere]

I doubt those stats. I’m sure they are true under very specific conditions. Autos can have higher gears at specific speeds that would be higher than a manual equivalent, but you can also slow down with a manual as you are driving the RPMs. I’m not saying you are incorrect. I’m just questioning real world driving with a driver who is driving for economy and not just setting the cruise control.

[@cayman9873]

The problem is that its harder and harder to find any car or truck with a manual.