Posted 2010-12-07 10:42 AM (#127852) Subject: adding exhaust brake
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 330 Location: northeast Texas
I have a 2007 Dodge dually with the 5.9 Cummins. So obviously it does not have the factory installed exhaust brake as that came out mid-year. So I would like information about adding on an exhaust brake. How well do the add-on's function and last. How expensive to add, approximately of course? We have the extended warranty so should this be done at a dealership or specialty shop? Is there a preferred brand? Just all the general info guys. I think I would really like to have this feature and since the truck is like new and low milage and almost paid for I have no intentions of trading it, so would need to add the feature.
Posted 2010-12-07 11:23 AM (#127855 - in reply to #127852) Subject: RE: adding exhaust brake
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 489
I don't have an answer to your question but I do have a Dodge with the jake brake and in my opinion it is something well worth adding, between that and the tow\haul button on the pickup I can slow down a full load without much use of the brake.
Posted 2010-12-07 12:19 PM (#127860 - in reply to #127852) Subject: RE: adding exhaust brake
Regular
Posts: 95 Location: East Central Kansas
CT Rider,
I have been going through the same dillema as you. I have done alot of research and found 2 companies. The BD exhaust brake and the PAC Brake. In addition to the exhaust brake you may end up changing out your factory exhaust to a new exhaust. I have a 2006 Ford F350 dually with the 6.0 which has the factory 3.5" exhaust. I do not want to do much modification to the engine because of past history with the 6.0L. This engine has been flawless. I have been leaning torward the PACBrake because I can get this to install on my OEM exhaust. With both systems you get the exhaust brake and the torque lock computer for the transmission. This is the case for the automatic transmission. If you have the 6 speed manual there is a different model. A friend of mine has an exhaust brake installed and thier is a world of difference. In my case I am going to have this installed by someone and was quoted around $1900.00 installed. So here is my $.02 worth. Good luck.
Posted 2010-12-07 12:38 PM (#127861 - in reply to #127860) Subject: RE: adding exhaust brake
Extreme Veteran
Posts: 330 Location: northeast Texas
Thank you for your .02. I forgot to add that yes my truck has an automatic. I have only towed moderate hills but hope to change that and make some real mountainous rides and I know it would be well worth the money if I could get something added on that worked properly. I would prefer something that did as least modification to OEM as possible. Should I perhaps contact my dealership service department and see what their mechanics recommend?
Posted 2010-12-07 4:03 PM (#127863 - in reply to #127852) Subject: RE: adding exhaust brake
Expert
Posts: 1351 Location: Decatur, Texas
Depending on the amount of money you wish to spend. Banks Pwer offers a good product but almost double in price. My opinion the PAC Brake is one of the best ones for the money. As far as contacting your service department I would say NO. Just because 99% of them are in it to make money and adding aftermarket items is a big money maker for them. Same as when you add say a custom front bumper or hitch. The dealer I bought my truck from wanted $1100 for a complete replacement front bumper and I bought it from the same place they order from and got it for $700 installed. The dealer service will always mark up the price.
Most any muffler shop can and will do the work. I would either find a local diesel shop or get online and find the EB then have someone install it for you.
Posted 2010-12-13 6:14 PM (#128012 - in reply to #127861) Subject: RE: adding exhaust brake
Veteran
Posts: 140 Location: Ft. Lawn, South Carolina
I put a PACBrake on my '99 350 dually.....7.3..(.eat your hearts out, boys!) and I love it. It should run you anywhere between $1800 - $2300, but well-worth the money. There is no trade-off for safety and this brake will give you that peace of mind. Of course, add in that touch of good common sense. I pull alot in Va., Tenn.,NC, SC...nothing like Painted Horse in Utah, etc., but to me, mountains can be a challenge no matter which ones you travel. Do it....you'll be glad you did!! Happy Trails!
Posted 2010-12-14 10:57 AM (#128030 - in reply to #127852) Subject: RE: adding exhaust brake
Location: Colorado
I would agree that Pac Brake builds a good product, and in my experience, they are a good company. An exhaust brake, in my opinion, is a great investment if your pulling very much.
adding exhaust brake
