We just took delivery of a 2009 Coachmen with a turbo Diesel and it has an Engine Exhaust Brake switch and was wondering if it is ok to leave that option on all the time? Are there any pros and cons to leave it on? How does it effect fuel economy? I am at 26500 lbs and I like the extra braking assist

The only problem that I am aware of is that if the exhaust brake is left on all the time, every time you let off on the accelerator, the engine brake comes on. I often don't want it to come on just because I let up on the accelerator pedal. That is the only issue I am aware of, as the brake is either on or off, no intermediate.Ed Headington

Correct, only issue is eliminating my favorite "gear"-- COASTING!

Yes it will afect your milage as it slowes the coach every time you lift on the throtle to much, weather you want to slow down or not. I leave mine off most of the time. Bill

I only use the exhaust brake on long down hill grades. I also use it while driving on heavy traffic which tends to come to sudden stops, and it helps slow the coach down faster. Other then those two, I have it turned off.

Lakebum, This is one of those things that, over time, you will learn what works best for you, and your coach, your driving techniques, you're standard of braking, and much more, that will all co-inside with the use of that Exhaust brake. They work outstandingly. You will extend the life of your service brakes by thousands and thousands of miles with the proper use of that exhaust brake. Mine is on almost 27/7 when I or the wife is driving. Because it's 1.5 second reach for the switch to turn if off, I just leave it on and, when not needed and want to coast, it's flipped of in a matter of a second or two. Then, it's flipped back on when needed or, will be anticipating a need for it. Good luck.Scott

Engine Exhaust Brake question | Good Sam Community

24 Replies

RayChez
Explorer
Mar 31, 2016
I only use the exhaust brake on long down hill grades. I also use it while driving on heavy traffic which tends to come to sudden stops, and it helps slow the coach down faster. Other then those two, I have it turned off.
WILDEBILL308
Explorer II
Mar 31, 2016
Yes it will afect your milage as it slowes the coach every time you lift on the throtle to much, weather you want to slow down or not. I leave mine off most of the time.
Bill
wolfe10
Explorer
Mar 31, 2016
Correct, only issue is eliminating my favorite "gear"-- COASTING!
eheading
Explorer
Mar 31, 2016
The only problem that I am aware of is that if the exhaust brake is left on all the time, every time you let off on the accelerator, the engine brake comes on. I often don't want it to come on just because I let up on the accelerator pedal. That is the only issue I am aware of, as the brake is either on or off, no intermediate.

Ed Headington

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Engine Exhaust Brake question

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