I have an 03 Dodge 2500 SWB Quad Cab 4X4 w/Cummins 5.9 HO and the auto 48RE trans. I'm the original owner...238,000 miles and ZERO Engine or Trans problems. I too was skepticle about the auto trans when I purchased, but it has been solid. The engine is bullet proof. If you look at the crankshaft of a cummins, duramax and a power stroke side by side, it will only take a second to realize which one is truely heavy duty. Only things I don't like about the truck are the dash and electrics.
If you buy a Dodge...day 1 get a dash mat! It will weather and crack fast (cheap materials). Mine is all stock and I get 17/18 combined driving and 22/23 on the hwy. However, towing a 14000 lb load will drop it to 14 mpg.


"Never met a deer that I didn't like" - QDMAV8R