lamby, the 4-speed 4x4 transmission/transfer case is considered to be the most durable transmission you could get behind the C223 diesel. It is not like the 5-speeds you tend to find in the 2WD diesel pickups which usually had problems after 150k miles. If Jerry replies he'll tell you the 4-speed is basically bulletproof. I remember him saying it in a past post he made in a thread. As for putting on larger tires I say go for it. I think the diesel will handle 31" tires without much problem and then you'll be really doing well on the trails. <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

Salvy