i have an early 04 with 212K auto 4x4. it's runs like a new truck. has a few minor issues, hole in the seat, crack in center console. else it pristine truck.

 

i've found an early 07 226K 6 speed manual. same truck 4door long box as mine. but in grey.

 

it's 5K more then what i owe on my 04, i'm thinking in the terms of replacing the trans. it's almost a wash. i'd love a manual.

 

So thoughts. both trucks are unmolested stock.

You say early 07 so I assume its a 5.9?

There were some teething issues with the early VGT's and the programming involved with the DPF so I'd be a little hesitant to buy an early 6.7.

Even if it is a 5.9, your buying more miles and its going to cost you 5 grand to do it. There's always the unknown of buying used, you often do not know the full history of the truck so that is a gamble. How it was used, how it was maintained, what it may need in the future. On the other hand you know the history of your truck and know what it needs. If and when the auto gives up the ghost you can put a manual in your truck for the extra price of the truck your looking at.

Factor in dropping a couple grand in replacement parts, steering, suspension, tires, sensors etc

You know what they say to a guy standing on a precipice......... Don't do it.

As much as I like a 6 speed too, I like the early 305/555 cummins better and a built auto kicks butt!