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maxwell11's avatar
maxwell11
Explorer
Oct 13, 2013

Down hill pull question

I have a 2005 Dodge diesel 2500, I am pulling a 6500# bumper hitch trailer.

we are going to the mountains (NC)this next week, driving from west KY>

I like my dodge diesel and it pulls my trailer great.
but, I am very concerned about the down hill (mountain) pulls that I am going to have to make.

my truck does not have an exhaust brake,

a 2005 dodge diesel transmission only has 1,2,D and you have tow haul on the end of the shifter.

QUESTION:
when I start down a long mountain, what gear selection do I make, what is going to help me hold that load back???????????

I have heard that the diesel engine has little to no braking ability, so do I just ride the brakes until I go over the mountain side when the brakes get hot and go,

as you can read into my posting, I am somewhat concern about this.

I just bought new tires and shocks for the truck, I may have been better served to have purchased an exhaust brake.

but, have heard the 2005 dodge diesel transmission does not like exhaust brakes so well.

can any of you, that has pulled with a 2005 dodge diesel give me some pointers on how to handle the load.

seems like trading the tuck for one with an exhaust brake or not going are not options at this time.

My friend will also be traveling with us, he has a 2010 gmc 2500 diesel and he is pulling a heavy, hitchhiker 5th wheel, but I do not think he has an exhaust brake either. however, he has the Allison transmission that may give him better downhill control.

Thanks for any and all responses, as you can tell I am a bit worried.

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