don't know if the auto is different in the 03 but, i have a 99 dodge diesel with the auto and i wish i had a stick. the auto is super nice when i am in traffic or commuting, but it would be nicer to have a stick in the hills. the auto has a huge gap between overdrive and 3rd. it's screaming at 55 to 60 with the overdrive off but is lugs with the overdrive on so you have to put you foot in it so it is constantly shifting. but i also have 3.55 gears so that i'm sure is a factor also plus with the stick you can put an exhaust brake on it realitively cheap as opposed to the auto you have to have the tranny pulled to have a lockout put in it. my truck has a bully dog box, cold air intake, and full 4" exhaust.
