Towing with steep grades

mikemc53 wrote:
OK, basically looking for opinions here.

I have a Dodge Ram 3500 Quad Cab with the 5.9L Cummins - 2004.5. I pull a 2016 Rockwood 8329SS, which is a 35 foot, 8900 lb TT. I have no real concerns with the truck's ability to handle the TT - it does that quite well. My question involves traveling where there are fairly steep grades. The uphills don't cause me much pause but the downhills, I have heard, can be a bit tricky. My truck does not have an exhaust brake and the expense of one, at this time, is the main reason that I still don't have one.

So, leaving the exhaust brake out of it, what are some of the more accepted methods for handling the downhill grades?

Thanks gang.

Well if the TC unlocks when coasting,you are down to service breaks only. I would not want to go down hill freewheeling! Before I installed my PacBrake I at least limited engine braking (very little).
Now that I have a PacBrake on my 01, and my 5 speed manual I don't worry as I almost never have to touch the service brakes.

PacBreak runs about $1,500 for the kit, no not cheap, but the comfort level is so relaxing.

Sans a EB, I would put the best pad material on your TV and follow the recommendations on braking and going slow.

PS: to the point of early 5.9 not having good EB, the Jacobs is not as good as a PacBrake. You could check with the local Cummins parts house as to the cost of a Jacobs kit as it will be less than the PacBrake, but the PacBrake will be far more effective.