Automatic or Manual, that is the question.

[hobbes69]

Ok, I know this is kind of a drivetrain question but its not a technical question. I just want everyones opionions on whether the automatic is worth the extra $1000 or not. I've been driving a manual since my first truck and don't really mind it. An automatic would be nice so the fiancee could drive it if needed. I'm know I'm getting a 02' SE S/C 4x4 but can't decide if the auto's worth the extra buxs.. How does everyone like their autos and manuals? Smooth shifting? durable? How are the shift points in the autos?

Thanks,
Richard

[4wheelinX]

If I could do it again, I would get a stick. Much more fun.

[OffroadX]

No complaint at all with the auto in my book, as long as you understand the OverDrive Off button, when you should use it, and what it can do for you.
It's handy for extra engine braking when traffic begins to slow ahead of you, and for extra kick when you're trying to merge or pass. That's what it can do for you.
Using it when climbing grades, towing, and other times when the engine is under load for more than a brief period will go a long way towards taking care of the tranny by keeping the temp down due to the torque converter being unlocked.

I tried to persuade my wife to go for a manual, but she's never driven one and has no intention of it, so we got an auto. I was disappointed, but I've come to appreciate it, especially off-road. No worries trying to finesse the clutch between stalling and spinning the tires, though I wouldn't mind the extra engine braking that the manual has downhill.

Brent

[ToeJam]

I don't know about the '02s, but the '00 and '01s have a maximum (rated) towing capacity of 3500 lbs for the manual, and 5000 lbs for the automatic. If you're going to do any towing, I'd get the automatic.

[Schludwiller]

In hindsight I would get an auto if you are planning on a lot of off-roading. The Xterra clutch is still a weak point in my opinion. Yeah, you'll have to brake a lot more going downhill, but not smoking your clutch on hard obstacles might be worth it. if I was buying just for going to the snow-mountain and easy trails then I would always get a 5-spd having grown up on the things.

[rrdstarr]

Originally posted by Schludwiller
In hindsight I would get an auto if you are planning on a lot of off-roading. The Xterra clutch is still a weak point in my opinion. Yeah, you'll have to brake a lot more going downhill, but not smoking your clutch on hard obstacles might be worth it. if I was buying just for going to the snow-mountain and easy trails then I would always get a 5-spd having grown up on the things.

Ditto to that!

[ChuckH]

If I were to do it again I'd probably get an automatic too. I normally despise automatics, but the reality is that the manual transmission in the Xterra isn't the greatest to begin with and has a POS clutch. Like Schlud noted, it won't hold worth a damn offroad when you really need it, and the action is poor. Of course I also spend a lot of time sitting in traffic and working the clutch on the X is a royal PITA (actually, PITF - Pain in the foot); especially since the pedal sticks out so far from the foot well.

[wqbang]

I like everything about the 5-speed besides the weak clutch. If I had to purchase agin, I would still get the manual tranny simply because I despise auto transmissions.

[ScottG]

I wanted the manual, but got the auto as part of a compromize with the wife. No problems with it so far at 67,000 miles. I drain and refill the transmission fluid quite often to keep it fresh.

Lower transfer case gears would probably help with the clutch problems, as you wouldn't have to ride the clutch as much during steep climbs. I have the same problem with my CJ5 after putting 35's on it. Of course, I know that is an expensive option.

Does anybody make an aftermarket clutch for the Xterra? Centerforce comes to mind.

[OffroadX]

Yes, Centerforce has one, but it's probably not what you're looking for. I believe it's designed to clamp harder as the revs go up, not exactly much benefit for 'wheeling.

Hmm, actually, they say that their II and Dual-Friction models are suitable/capable for 4WD and off-road use:
http://www.centerforce.com/generalinfo.htm

For whatever reason, Mike/Philosopher decided it wasn't worth it when he had his replaced. Ian/XOC has been through a few as well, still went back to stock.

Brent

[Toy4x4Guy]

Get the auto. It's got plenty of pickup. I've always driven 5 speeds until now, and love having an auto.

[Maddog]

From what I've read, Centerforce clutches have springs that are prone to pop out of the disc. I've read this a couple places, but can't remember where I saw it. This is also what a Nissan Master Tech posted over on NOR, he said stay away from them, advising Nissan Motorsports should be the first place to look for a clutch. When it comes time to replace mine, I'll probably go with a stock replacement, I don't know how Centerforce could stay in business though if they are as bad as some people say...go figure?

As far as the debate goes, I'd go with a manual again as I too hate having an auto and the manual gives you slightly better braking down steep descents. T-case gears would definetly help though.

Dog

[ozxterra]

Im happy to drive both but I went with the auto. I like manual in a vehicle with a lot of kick. The XTerra doesnt have that so working the gears in traffic doesnt get me excited.
I like the hands-free aspect and my Fiance can drive it easily.

The auto performs just fine off-road in all sorts of conditions just dont be afraid to work the settings and overdrive.

Also, I would imagine getting a manual SC wouldnt be that easy...

I checked stock (online and called) on Green XTerras when I bought mine and when i saw there werent any I went in and paid for one under the condition that it would be there within 12 hours to pick up or no deal. I paid for a manual.
They didnt have one near enough (after we made the deal) and tried to get me to change colou but I said "no."
They ended up bringing me my Canadian Edition Alpine Green down from Vancouver that day..... It had an auto tranny

That salesman will think twice before he decides someones a chump instead of just acting stupid.... I also got a free 6 Disc CD changer for my "inconvenience".......

[migojoe]

I chose auto because my left leg was becoming noticably larger due to the clutch workout while sitting in DC traffic :P. I havent really pushed it off-road yet but so far I cant complain about the auto in the X.

-Earl

[Aythya]

I was attracted to the extra towing capacity! If it can haul more, there more torque applied to the ground! I can't explain it, seems to me the manual should be more bullet proof, but who knows. I have towed several loads close to the 5000 pound limit, OD off of course and had no trouble. I do notice the trailer shift more in the X than did in my full size GMC though.