Forum Discussion

Bluestone's avatar
Bluestone
Explorer
Feb 24, 2015

After market exhaust brakes

We have a 2008 Chevy 3500 LTZ have been looking at the B&D exhaust brake. Has anyone installed one of these and do they like the exhaust brake?
  • rhagfo's avatar
    rhagfo
    Explorer III
    Not a Chevy, but I think when I put an exhaust brake on my 2001 Ram I went with the best in the market, PacBrake! Mine is turbo mounted and works awesome, not cheap, but being air activated, I now have on board air for inflating tires and air horns. :B
  • Your Dmax has a VVT turbo brake that works as a exhaust brake. All you need is a Banks Speed brake or another similar software package that increases the Dmax VVT (variable vane turbo) for a more aggressive exhaust braking.
    Nothing mechanical to purchase just software like the newer Dmax use.

    Check out some of the Dmax diesel forums for more input on the PC changes and look at the Banks Speed brake on their website.
  • yes one member on this forum has installed the BD and I know he will be on telling you his experience. He is a working fella so it will happen I am sure.

    chevman
  • I have the what is called the Banks Brake on my 08 GMC. The settings are controlled with a knob. The Speed Brake has a dash top monitor like a gps. It gives a lot of info and allows you to do other things at a much bigger cost. You don't want or need anything that goes in the exhaust.

    Mark
  • An EB that goes in your exhaust has no detrimental effect on the truck.
    So pick the one you like - they all work well.
  • I installed the B&D on our Dodge CTD and it worked very well. BUT, it did require I do an exhaust valve spring change on install, so be careful of that little tidbit.
  • If the OP is referring to the BD Diesel VVT (variable vane turbo) brake, I have one and absolutely love it. I have never had a mechanical turbo brake for my truck...so can not compare, but I would not trade my VVT brake for anything. Truly a plug and play. I've had it for 2 years and I would buy it again.
  • Same as msjdbman except I have had mine for 4 years. Most of my towing is in the mountains too.
    Dave
  • You can also have tuning company install the ability to use your turbo as a brake. I used DuramaxTuner. It was $400 and I have an on and off switch. My truck is a 2006. Best $400 ever spent.