Thanks for explaining the shifting. I have driven a few miles in an old 1950's International truck that did not have synchronizers in the transmission. (Seems like it was a 5 speed transmission with a two speed axle) It would take some practice to master driving driving such a transmission.

A couple more questions for you guys. Are there any reasons against buying a truck with an automatic?

Is there much difference in the cost of driving a medium duty truck compared to the cost of a heavy duty 1 ton truck pulling a trailer?

That sounds like a 3126 Cat. Don't walk, run away from anything with a pos 3126.