Exhaust Brake - when?

[MNRon]

I've been pulling the 5er with our D/A that handles it really well. I push the exhaust brake button when going down slopes and it works great. Is this how everyone uses it? Anyone leave it on when not descending?
Thanks.

[Michelle_S]

Yep on all the time. Presently have just over 70K on the OEM Brake Pads and most of that mileage is towing 17K plus.

[joe_b_]

I use mine most of the time, when I remember to turn it back on, as mentioned above. Wish the default position of the switch was on, instead of off every time the engine is shut off.

The D/A exhaust brake is real handy to use in conjunction with the cruise control. The cruise will let you get 5 mph over the set speed and then it will activate the exhaust brake and start downshifting the Allison transmission when going down a steep grade. Exhaust brakes need to be exercised regularly to keep carbon build up to a minimum. I try to remember to turn mine on all the time but here in town, I often don't use it, at the slower speeds in town.

[coolbreeze01]

The exhaust brake should have been standard from the beginning.

Actually a crime that they weren't.

[N-Trouble]

Yep, all the time when I tow. Well at least when I can remember to reach down and hit the button (shuts off everytime you cycle ignition).

[1oldtruck]

I use it when towing or hauling anything.

[Mandalay_Parr]

Mine in on all the time.

[donn0128]

Leave it on at all times except on ice or snow covered roads. Reduces wear on your service brakes.

[Old-Biscuit]

I turn mine own anytime I tow.

I also turn it on sometimes when I'm not towing.

Turn on tow/haul and exhaust brake.....woo hoo!!