tsetsaf wrote:
afishinado wrote:
3oaks wrote:
Dave H M wrote:
I would never spend that money to cross the rockies.
I drove an eighteen wheeler that did not have an eb.
I am not knocking them, however I think you will get one cus you are stewing over the issue.
Ask if you need Bilstein shocks before you leave the drive way. you will get the same answer from the Bil guys.
So spend the money if it makes you comfortable or other wise use the proper mountain driving techniques.
Have a good trip, you will love the rockies.
I agree.
An exhaust brake may be useful, but not a necessity if the TV is in good condition and the trailer brakes are in good shape and adjusted properly. Gear down before starting a long or steep decent and keep the speed way down from the beginning helps tremendously. I used to be more concerned about climbing some of the steep grades than I was going down them.
Thanks again, what I was hoping to hear. Also contacted two retired truck driver friends, one has the same truck as mine and pulls a race car (lot less weight) and another that has a gas class A towing a 14' enclosed trailer with two bikes. They concur it would be better to have it for sure, but knowing me and how I drive, and how often I'm going to use it, suggested I pass..
The $2600 came from the local Ram dealer for the project. While I'm sure there are better products, I would be surprised if the OEM one is anything but good. I saw them on line for $1400 (the OEM one) abd it looks like 4 or 5 hours @ $75 for my mechanic, so it's close no matter how I did it.
I have replaced, repaired, serviced or upgraded every system on the truck and trailer. The trailer has new brake assemblies, hubs etc. Added a TST tire pressure monitor system. I think the TV is complete, the 5er is in my drive for the final 2 weeks before departure for any other detailing it may need..
THANK YOU EVERYONE...
I am confused... so you were just looking for permission to do the wrong thing?
On this forum we have the "weight police" who flip out when people put even 1 lb of weight over their posted numbers. As I responded before the 06 manual states an "exhaust brake is required for towing over 10,000 lbs". Doesn't say it is required only if you will be driving mountain passes. You are travelling 7,000+ lbs OVER your rated weight rating if you continue towing without an eb.
I know that in the towing section of my owners manual an EB is recommended for trailers over 10,000#.
Your money your choice, I only tow about 11,000# and never give a down hill grade a second thought.
PS: if you do buy get a Pacbrake better than a jake!
