Thread: 6sp versus 8sp transmission

Originally Posted by rapserv

Looking to acquire a Disco 4 SDV6 and would like to know your thoughts on whether to go for a 6 speed or 8 speed transmission.

I have been looking to get a 2012 model which is generally a 6 speed tranny but I can't decide whether to go with a 2012 with some extras .. bullbar, dual batteries, break controller, etc with a 6 speed trans or spend a similar amount on a 2013 with the 8 speed auto and no options fitted.

Just how worthwhile is it going to the 8 speed box .. or isn't it?
I do a lot of towing with a van just over 3 tonne.

If you do a lot of towing there is no 'argument', go for the 8 speeder with paddle shift.
I regularly tow a 3.1 Tonne caravan 21ft and having the ability to easily change gears to maintain revs around 2,200-2,500 in order to keep exhaust gas temp down and TC lockup makes life easy.
Prior the D4 I had a 2009 TDV8 RRS which had a superb engine but 6 speed box. It towed the van beautifully but the 8 speed box is just sooo much better.

It seems that the 8spd is a lot stronger/longer lived than the 6spd, so pro'ly only worth getting a 6 if the tranny or at least the torque converter has been done.

8spd definitely, no question. You can then add your own accessories and make sure theyre done how you want it, not inheriting someone elses problems.

Originally Posted by Discodicky

If you do a lot of towing there is no 'argument', go for the 8 speeder with paddle shift.
I regularly tow a 3.1 Tonne caravan 21ft and having the ability to easily change gears to maintain revs around 2,200-2,500 in order to keep exhaust gas temp down and TC lockup makes life easy.
Prior the D4 I had a 2009 TDV8 RRS which had a superb engine but 6 speed box. It towed the van beautifully but the 8 speed box is just sooo much better.

So .. not a lot has changed then from what I do now in the Disco 2 TD5.
When towing the van, and the TD5 hasn't missed a beat in the last 10 years of constant outback towing, I am constantly changing/locking gears whilst one eye is glued to the EGT guage.
The 2 main reasons for changing up was to get that extra power when towing and to make the tow vehicle setup 'legal'.

Originally Posted by RANDLOVER

It seems that the 8spd is a lot stronger/longer lived than the 6spd, so pro'ly only worth getting a 6 if the tranny or at least the torque converter has been done.

if it's a stronger and longer lived gearbox then that alone is a reason to be going for the 2013 on.

Originally Posted by Eric SDV6SE

8spd definitely, no question. You can then add your own accessories and make sure theyre done how you want it, not inheriting someone elses problems.

Yes .. this is the way I've been leaning.
Still .. it would be nice to pick up one with a few basic addons like colour coordinated ARB bullbar and maybe aux battery.

Definately keep looking. D4s are not great at holding value.. Plenty come and go for sale.. This forum in the sales section has had some great buys over the years..

When I was in the market for my car I had 70k and that put me only up to MY11 if I talked them down. I went to Mackay land Rover to test drive and the salesmen said no way mate. I asked why not. He said the 6 speed box ( in my price range) was the best box in the world. Unfortunately the 8 is even better!! He told me.. Don't ever drive the 8 it'll ruin life with the 6, that was in 2013 and I still have not driven the 8 speed.

Originally Posted by rapserv

So .. not a lot has changed then from what I do now in the Disco 2 TD5.
When towing the van, and the TD5 hasn't missed a beat in the last 10 years of constant outback towing, I am constantly changing/locking gears whilst one eye is glued to the EGT guage.
The 2 main reasons for changing up was to get that extra power when towing and to make the tow vehicle setup 'legal'.

EGTs - For what its worth.
I had an EGT gauge in my D2a and watched it like a hawk when towing the 3.5T un-airodynamic brick - down to 2nd gear on some hills.

For the same reasons, put an EGT gauge in the D4 2.7L 6 speed, and have never got above 650 in worst case scenarios - at the same time coolant never got above 107 - and yes at those levels I did quickly slow down a little just in case, but have stopped worrying for the D4 - completely different animal to the overworked D2. And yes I have always been approaching paranoid to ensure the coolant system remains in excellent working order.

Now do I put an EGT gauge in for the new 3L 8 speed?