Just to add a little extra, as much as I never like an automatic in any truck, especially a Heavy truck, automatics in large vehicles is nothing new. GMC made city buses back in the 40's with 2-Speed auto transmissions. Some of you may know them as what are called the "Old Look" buses (Jacki Gleason style).
They were 6-71 Detroit powered and would haul a full load of people uphill to boot. They were a little slow moving but would get the job done. As far as I know, they held up. I always wondered what years they were as they all looked the same for many years and I got to check out the registration on one once. It was a 1945.
Bill
