Forum Discussion

Dano1955's avatar
Dano1955
Explorer
May 24, 2016

engine brake while towing?

OK, so just getting a feel for towing my 5er with the 2013 Ram Cummins. When tow enabled (heavy tow used with appropriate tire pressure) and engine brake on, going downhill after taking foot off gas will, of course, start the engine brake. This has a tendency to have the 5th wheel "push" the truck somewhat, which is a bit disconcerting (freaking me out Man!). A little jerky feeling.

Normal behavior I think, yes? Well, should I continue to use engine brake and maybe use the manual gain to get trailer to slow as well, or touch the brakes to activate the trailer brake or learn to love it or what?

I've towed trailers without brakes, bike trailer and smaller utilities, and trailers with brakes 18-20 footers. But towed those with gassers, no engine brake so this is pretty new experience for me.

Guess I just want to find out "normal" if there is such a thing and if this is what it's supposed to be.

Thanks for sharing your experience.
  • TH and EB on ALL the time. Set cruise control to say 55 at top of hill let off with the truck trans locked in the gear you would have came up that grade in. Set back and enjoy the ride!
  • rhagfo's avatar
    rhagfo
    Explorer III
    Don't really understand you issue, yes with engine brake the TV is slowing the 5er, but it shouldn't feel like is pushing you around. Yes it is trying to push the TV down the hill, but unless it is snowy or icy, should not cause control issues.
    I almost never touch the service brakes, or the trailer brakes on a downhill grade. That is the whole purpose and reason for having an exhaust brake, save the service brakes for the final stop.
  • Turn ON 'Tow/Haul' Mode
    Turn ON 'Exhaust Brake' (which is part of your turbo...variable vane turbo)

    RELAX.........

    Your truck is well equipped to handle that 10K 5vr (even if it is a 2500)