After market exhaust brake reliability and effectiveness

Sorry, I didn't think the 09 had a VGT.

I’ve had the BD Diesel turbo brake system for quite a few years. Mine has 4 total settings...Off, Low, med, and hi. I hardly ever use anything but low and I would definitely buy again. It’s my understanding that now there are only 2 on settings on more recent units.

Variable geometry turbo
Variable vane turbo
Same thing different terminology.

What is VGT?

BD Diesel here on my 07.5 Duramax variable vane. Works great.

C Schomer wrote:
You're lucky if you DON'T have a VGT and you don't want one either. Get an in-line exhaust brake. I've had a Pac brake for several years on a previous truck and now a BD exhaust break for a few years and they both work great. It also sounds like the electric operated brand works well too. I want on board air no matter what so I use the compressed air operated inline brakes. Craig

But he does, so what’s your point?

Not sure I’ve ever seen or heard of anyone adding a traditional exh brake downstream of a vvt.
Of course could be done physically and be operational, but it’s not common
Get a module, plug it in, take the easy route and enjoy a nice exhaust brake function without ever touching the exhaust or doing any re-wiring.

And yes I would absolutely do it.
The 3 big advantages of a diesel pickup are fuel mileage, more power and exhaust brakes. $500 is money well spent on a module to get the most out of your setup.

You're lucky if you DON'T have a VGT and you don't want one either. Get an in-line exhaust brake. I've had a Pac brake for several years on a previous truck and now a BD exhaust break for a few years and they both work great. It also sounds like the electric operated brand works well too. I want on board air no matter what so I use the compressed air operated inline brakes. Craig

Which type of system is better: one that uses an on board air compressor and butterfly valve, or an electrical module that changes the angle of the vanes in the turbocharger?

No one has answered your question because they’re talking about actual add on exhaust brakes.
If you weren’t aware, you dont need an exhaust brake. But rather a tuner to utilize your VVT as an exhaust brake.
Can’t say which one is best but I’m certain they all work fine and similarly and they’re all from the primary companies that produce these products.