Which exhaust brake would you recommend

Well, I finally did it. I bought the PacBrake C44052 kit. My son (Who is a ASE Certified Master Mechanic and also the Service Manager at the local Dodge dealer) and I installed it a couple of weeks ago. I have not had a chance to use it while towing yet, but I am anxious to do so.

When driving the truck without the camper, it does a great job slowing down to about 20 mph. I'll let you know about the performance with the 12,000 lb camper behind.

Happy Rving,
Bill

Thanks to all who have responded to my post. I'm leaning toward the PacBrake at this time. I'll let you know when I pull the trigger.

Thanks again for you input.

Bill

wborst wrote:
I have a 2005 Dodge 2500 CTD with automatic transmission. I would like to add an exhaust brake soon. Which brand would you recommend and why?

Thanks.

If you go the BD Diesel route you will have to purchase the additional torque converter auto lock module for about $270 to fully maximize the EB effectiveness (automatically locks and unlocks converter). Or, you can wire up a manual lock/unlock converter switch for about $30 but you have to remember to unlock it before you come to a stop LOL. I think it also incorporates the od lock out option too b/c the 2005 year does not allow you to lock out overdrive (4th gear) with the T/H button. Not sure about your stock valve body either and weather it can safely handle it?

45Ricochet wrote:

rhagfo wrote:


I can almost bring my truck and 5er to a full stop with the EB only.

You didn't highlight the ALMOST part Russ :W Mine will unlock the TC at about 20 MPH then your on your own brake wise on a 15% hairpin curve.

Yours is a Jacobs, on and auto, mine is a Pacbrake on a manual.

On the note on unlocking at 20 mph, even on a 15% grade, with cold brakes you should be able to stop.

rhagfo wrote:


I can almost bring my truck and 5er to a full stop with the EB only.

You didn't highlight the ALMOST part Russ :W Mine will unlock the TC at about 20 MPH then your on your own brake wise on a 15% hairpin curve.

wborst wrote:
I have a 2005 Dodge 2500 CTD with automatic transmission. I would like to add an exhaust brake soon. Which brand would you recommend and why?

Thanks.

This is listed at less than $1,600 for the auto, with the complete air package. As stated before not cheap, but the best on the market, I can almost bring my truck and 5er to a full stop with the EB only.

Read this information on Pacbrake's site, you might find it less expensive, but I had a great experience with Thoroughbred Diesel.

PRXB why it is better

Thoroughbred diesel Pacbrake

PacBrake

JIMNLIN wrote:

#1Flyboy wrote:
. . .You might also look at a Banks Power SpeedBrake; got one in my 2007 Classic GMC; can set speed you wish to maintain going downhill; also a brake assist!!!

The Banks Speed brake is not a exhaust brake. Its a software program that programs the vanes on your Dmax/A VVT to give more exhaust braking.
The Dodge 5.9 Cummins has no VVT or VGT braking so a actual exhaust brake is needed.

Correct

#1Flyboy wrote:
. . .You might also look at a Banks Power SpeedBrake; got one in my 2007 Classic GMC; can set speed you wish to maintain going downhill; also a brake assist!!!

The Banks Speed brake is not a exhaust brake. Its a software program that programs the vanes on your Dmax/A VVT to give more exhaust braking.
The Dodge 5.9 Cummins has no VVT or VGT braking so a actual exhaust brake is needed.

thomasmnile wrote:

wborst wrote:
I have a 2005 Dodge 2500 CTD with automatic transmission. I would like to add an exhaust brake soon. Which brand would you recommend and why?

Thanks.

Jacobs does not offer a product for the 2004.5 & 2005 Rams with the 48RE tranny. Not sure if BD does or not.

From the BD web site: "Automatic-equipped trucks prior to 2006 require BD’s programmable AutoLoc and PressureLoc kits to electronically control torque converter clutch engagement. This addition effectively reduces slippage, resulting in peak retarding performance as well as lower transmission temperatures."