I am in the market for a diesel. I am trying to chose between the Duramax and the Powerstroke. I will be looking at a 4x4, 3/4-ton, crew cab, lwb/swb (doesn't matter).


I haven't heard much about how this tranny performs under loads (fully loaded three-horse slant trailer with living quarters, min. 9k pounds).


Can someone inform me of any known issues with any year of the Allison?


My husband currently owns an '01 2500 Cummins but my '97 F-150 was just totaled and we will be trading his Dodge in on the Duramax or Powerstroke.

I have an '02 and pull a 3horse slant with 10' LQ, all steel TrailsWest, fully loaded at 16,000#. I have been pulling with my Juice at level 2, I have a 4" muffler in my 3.5" exhaust system. From Gilbert to Flagstaff at the speed limit +5mph and get 7-8 mpg. Gilbert to Payson at any speed I want. Coming back down the mountains, the grade braking works as good as anything you could expect, l have no need for an exhaust break.


The only thing that passes me are those that I let!! I have never been so happy with a vehicle.

I've had all three and by far I like the Allison the best.

Only real thing is that if you add performance mods, keep them inder 90
HP. Not sure what the max torque that the Allison can
handle. There are a few upgrades out there if you are interested
in spending some $$ on. Stock, the Allison seems to be the best
out there. The Rams (Dodge) have a rep of not standing up to the
factory torque, over time.
Edited by: Max Owner

Dodge stock auto was the worst of the three.