I prefer MTs , esp this one. The V6 MT is made in the MMC Truck plant. They use it in school buses and cabovers overseas, therefore it's much tougher and heavier than it needs to be. Hard to get parts for.
The auto being made by AISIN probably easier to get parts for. It's tough, knew a feller that did the Rubicon with his AT LWB 90.

dave h.
'89 Raider V6 5spd;Aisin Hubs;; Gen2 LS: frt. brakes, rear coils;U.C.arms;R.trailing arms;idler arm; rear LSD axle w.disc brakes ;2 battery system for Dog's fan; relocated ECU; custom bumpers;J.Baker receiver;Conferr roofrack; t-bar crank.