hi, totally new to this, and not good with computers, so I apologize in advance if I screw up...anyway, I have a 92 4x4 auto..love the engine, transmission sucks...might as well be in neutral when coming down hills..even in low range...apparently I cannot put in an exhaust break as my tranny is not a " lock up transmission? ...does anyone out there know if I have any other options, short of replacing the transmission?..have been considering putting a manual transmission in, but that seems like a whole lotta headache?.. truck only has 98,000 kms. on it..hate to take out a perfectly good transmission otherwise..though I much prefer a manual anyday.

 

Find a '92 manual donor truck, and the converstion is not bad, as all the needed parts will be there.

 

You can turn your non lockup into a lockup. It's in the sticky thread.

 

1. A diesel engine doesn't have much engine braking because it doesn't have a throttle creating vacuum.

2. A non lockup converter will brake in lower gears unless it'd worn or damaged so the hydraulic coupling spacing inside is excessive. The forces are such that the coupling is pulled tighter on acceleration, and forced apart on deceleration.

With a PacBrake exhaust brake, a lightly built up transmission (A518) and a Goerend low stall converter, I do mountain passes barely using the service brakes, and unless it's ridiculous steep, usually at speed safely.

I had the Goerend converter fail in this matter. Goerend fixed it. Found out at the time that if a shift kit is installed wrong it can wreck the converter. Specifically, the mod that increases TQ pressure for lock up is unneeded on a non lockup transmission and can damage the TQ.

As others have said, you should spend some time (a month wouldn't be excessive) reading the FAQ pages. There's a world of knowledge there.

And try to make your thread title reflect the subject. ie "What's with no engine braking?"

 

thanks guys, for your suggestions and advice...will do some homework and get back to ya's if need be...