New OR Used Truck 4 Me?

[FASTERTHANU]

Gentelmen, I HUMBLY request your advice... I have recently purchased a new LQ 4 horse trailer which requires I upgrade out of my beloved truck (see signature).

Things to consider:

The new trailer weighs about 16,000 lbs with all the horses in it.

I live in the most mountainous state in the country (Nevada).

I refuse to run any transmission other than a manual with an exhaust brake.

I've tried for months to find a low miles '04 Laramie DRW (white) with no success and figure they are either rare as hen's teeth or the guys that own them will never part with such a fine specimen. My reasoning for this particular vintage is that they came exclusively (i believe) with the NV 5600 6 speed which has a better O.D. ratio and is bulletproof by most standards. The other reason being no kittys/emmision controls.

My questions are;

1. Is the ger trag transmission holding up under SEVERE duty use?

2. Should I wait and see if '07 4500 has something better in it?

3. Does anyone know what they will have in '07?

4. Is the '04 the holy grail I am making it out to be?

5. Is there a code in the vin# that designates H.O. in 04's or an easy way to get a prospective seller to identify one as such.

6. Can the new trucks be made to run in 2 low?

While my truck seems more than cabable of both hauling and stopping this rig, my main reason for upgrading is both the DRW as a safety issue and the increased GCVWR of the newer trucks. I have read horror stories of liability issues when operating over the GCVWR and getting in an accident.

I value your input on this matter as a lot of you folks spend way more time than I have reasearching these vehicles. It is inconceivable to think of getting Duracrap or PowerJoke so I am at Daimler's mercy. My families well being is at stake here and anyone that has an opinion will be heard.

Just as a side note to the many polls on this website. At 176,000 miles I am still on original clutch, 5th gear, and lift pump (with perfect pressure). It has been 100,000 miles since I did my last brake job and there is still a good 1/8th" to the wear indicator which is a testimony to the benefits of an exhaust brake. The truck will be for sale soon if anyone is interested.

Lastly I will gladly pay a finders fee if someone knows where an '04 white dually Laramie H.O. with 6 speed is for sale. I will for joy!

Thanks to all who reply!