Chrysler tranny's are pure chit and have been for the last 35 years. It's because of the poor internal quality parts such as electronic solenoids, in addition to cheap quality plastics. But the Cummings is a superior diesel motor.

When I had to buy a very heavy duty truck, I went to the Ford F-450 or higher. Always got 500,000 miles out of their trucks. 2nd choice, would be the GM series. You could pay me enough money to by any Chrysler product. Poor quality control in that product line except for the Cummings.

 

I hate to admit it, but I think Ford takes the lead in creature comforts. If I were buying a new truck, I would go into the F550 size where I can get a CAT diesel and enjoy the 500K plus miles in all the comfort. If I needed to stay in the 1 ton size or smaller, I would go with the Duramax hands down. Still pretty dang comfortable, but I think even up against the Cummins, the Dura-fatty will out pull and perform if you get into the upper stages of the tuning. Ford diesels haven't been worth the metal wasted on them since they ditched the 7.3L. Seems like you have answered your own question when you said you really want the Chevy. You will not be disappointed.