[ChevLoRay]

Can't say for sure, but I'll bet more of the manual 3-speeds are 6-cylinder trucks. Doesn't mean you won't find an automatic-6-cylinder, though.

If you don't care for the six-cylinder, you can always upgrade to a V8. It'll be easier to convert the engine than to convert the chassis and other parts from an automatic to a manual. You gotta remember that the bulk of the transmission conversions are from manual to automatic.

So, just what is it about an automatic that you don't like? Have you driven a 3-on-the-tree much? Is it just some mental image that you have that says you have to have a manual or your less a person? If that is the case...I'm a lesser person. I learned to drive on a V8-3-speed, then bought one. After it was totaled (not my fault) I bought a V8-automatic. I've owned 3,4 and 5-speeds as well as powerglides, turbohydramatics, dual-coupling hydramatics, and cruiseomatics. Once you're rolling in high gear, the method you use to get there is old-hat and doesn't matter.