ok guys this is my first post here and this is a question on about personal preferance but which one is a stronger or longer lasting unit. i have a 85 runner that has a manuel trans in it but reverse is out and needs to be fixed but in my search for a trans i found an auto for a really good price(honestly i prefer a auto) but want what is best.

here is some back ground. i have been wheel for quite a number of years i am a "jeep guy" (i know i will catch some hell for this) and am getting back to my very early roots of yotas but honestly dont know a whole lot about them yet and this rig will be wheeled heavily.
this runner is almost exactly like my first truck too

 

I prefer the 5 spd for the ease of upgrade and serviceability of the tcase, such as duals. Swapped out my auto for a manual. It was a slug with an auto even with the higher diff gearing of 4.30s instead of 4.10s.

 

Well, you could have Manuel shift either your manual or automatic transmission. But a manual trans (M/T) is usually a better choice, since you already have one, putting in a rebuilt or used one will be easier. A/T will require a lot of wiring to install and connect the ECT computer and parts. Also will need to swap the transfer case out as well since the A/T uses a different case. M/T will also preserve the little engine power/torque you currently have and M/T is easier to upgrade the t-case with lower gears or dual t-cases, etc.

 

my runner that i have years ago was auto and would not get out of its own way.
specs on my new runner:
85 22re manual
front axle 5.29 locker
rear axle v6 5.29 spool chevy disc conv.
downey leafs and shackles
33 tls
extras that came with the runner:
stock transfer case
37 iroks
marlin ifs steering bracket
high steer arms and linkage
rear leafs
downey air intake