Auto or 6sp Manual

I like my 18' manual, it is much different than my 1st gen.

The powerband really gets me sometimes. Forget it's a new v6 and around 4k it's like a rocket. Clutch is a mystery still for me, trying to figure it out for a couple months so far. It does rev a bit higher on the interstate then my dads 18' auto

 

Before the TSB ECU update, I was averaging just under 19.5. Now after the update settled in, I'm up about two more MPG? I get about the same even offroad, so no complaints here.

If it feels unnatural, then I would say it is the accumulator. Folks are working on direct replacements, or you can go my route and install a brake line elbow with a bit of gentle working of the line to the slave:
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/mt-accumulator-delete-and-bs-thread.568303/

Either way, the shift is transformed.

 

I thought long and hard about a MT but I ended up going with the AT. While I admit the MT would be more fun to drive I tend to spend a lot of time in traffic in the DC area. For me it just wasn’t practical. I will say if they still make them when I retire I will probably get a manual. Teaching my kids to drive a manual would be pretty cool.

 

The manual tsb?

I've thought about doing it, not sure if my 2018 has it done already

How does the accumulator delete help? More responsive feed back from the clutch, my 03 you can feel everything. I know exactly when its engaging and time every gear perfectly but ive drove it for 5 yrs now

 

I have been really happy with how the new manual performs. I have only driven manual transmissions and I find my self needing to push the clutch down a lot less in traffic with this new 6sp. It's surprisingly hard to actually kill it and stall . The only gear that seems to be weird is reverse. You're either going 0 or 20 in R. If your a manual fan I bet you'll really love driving it daily.

 

I adore my 6sp OR. I'd be thinking about trading into a Subaru or VW by now if I had bought it as an auto trans. But as it is my desire to get back into something more sporty is satiated. So much so that I will probably wait a few more years, pay it off, and keep my Tacoma as a second vehicle when I do finally get back into a car.

 

Folks with August 2018 builds have reported that they were updated to 04A71. Folks with earlier builds were reporting 04A70. In the update thread, it was posted how to check if you have an OBD adapter and the OBD Fusion app:
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/software-update-for-the-manual.562550/page-38#post-18485121

The accumulator delete gets rid of the wonky, no-feel engagement. The best way that I found to describe it is if you can normally downshift into 1st smoothly while moving in other MTs but can't with the Taco, then this is it. Every shift feels good and proper. It also makes the weirdly tall Reverse gear more livable to me.

I also found that it really slows clutch engagement which I feel will shorten clutch life over time. With it gone, the clutch moves as fast or slow as I want it to.

 

The MT is fun to drive which is why I got it. Also, the AT I drove was possessed. Granted it didn't have the ECU flash TSB done but it was just annoying. At times I wish I had an AT but I only commute about 3 miles so I never sit in traffic and long for an AT. And I'm hoping that when I go to sell or trade in the future the MT will be worth a premium since they are becoming rarer and that is all some people want.

 

I would love to know how you got 25.4 The best I've got is around 20 on a road trip. I have about 1300 miles on my truck. Maybe it hasn't broken in yet?

 

Have you ever driven a manual? I'm guessing you haven't. It's not as simple as pulling a lever. There's a technique to it, if you want to drive smoothly. Getting it right with each shift is rewarding.

 

There is a TSB for the manual ecu?

 

I keep seeing your posts, and I'm beginning to think you're actually me.

 

Yes, for the engines. TSB-0058-18 and TSB-0125-18. Just like the ATs, the improved tune makes the engine better. The smoothness and consistency of the motor improves shifting.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/software-update-for-the-manual.562550/

A lot of folks, including myself, updated their own Tacos. Folks have had mixed success at dealers due to the wording errors in the TSBs. The linked thread will explain it all.

 

Manual drivers don't think they have a special skill, they just enjoy the process. I don't know how to explain it but for some it's just more relaxing and fun.. especially off road or in the snow.

 

Lol.....

......maybe I am

 

If you pay attention after you drive you will notice that some trips do well, here was a quick 10 mile drive that netted almost 27

 

I've never gotten past 20. Any tips to get the awesome mpgs you've gotten?

 

take a look at the clutch accumulator delete thread. @tonered has been terrific at helping us get these details dialed in. i haven't done that mod yet but will as soon as development hits the right point for me. https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/mt-accumulator-delete-and-bs-thread.568303/

 

Thanks!

 

I usually ride 1st gear out a little and then go a little easier from there, also skip 4th or 5th gear most times. Been averaging 21 - 22 per tank here lately but expect it to drop down to 19 or 20 on winter fuel.