The problem is simple. To certify an engine and transmission combination for EPA is very expensive. Ford has not certified any manual transmissions with engines in half-ton pickups. The standards are lower for heavy trucks, so they have done it with the ¾-ton trucks. So, a ¾-ton Raptor could have a stick without having to certify a new engine/transmission (and all the expense of doing that for Ford).
---------- Post added at 12:16 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:12 AM ----------
As someone who still drives a '94 Bronco (5.0L 5sp stick), I would LOVE this, but Ford does not currently have a manual transmission/engine combo certified for half-ton use. They DO have them certified for heavy trucks like the ¾-ton. In other words, this is something that would not be very expensive for Ford/SVT to do. A Bronco would be prohibitive, as would certifying a stick for half-ton pickups.
---------- Post added at 12:21 AM ---------- Previous post was at 12:16 AM ----------
Dang! That's a change with the 2012. Sticks were available on the 2011 F250.
Here's how ironic this is: Back in 1980, I bought a K5 Blazer with a 350 and stick. In 1984, I wanted another, but Chevy no longer offered the stick. Ford sold me my first Bronco with a 351. Over the years, I bought five Broncos, all with sticks. In other words, it was the availability of the stick that convinced me to buy a Ford.
I have a '98 Ram 2500 (automatic). It's OK, but I would not buy another Dodge.
