Another happy PacBrake PRXB owner here. I don't think it was mentioned in the above posts so I'll try to add some info. I installed my EB myself and is definetly a DIY project. On my 05 the brains of the operation comes straight from the Cummins ECM. The ECM is already programmed for exhaust brake operation and controls the signal to turn the air compressor (or solenoid depending on how you have it set up) on. The air compressor then extends the air cylinder which engages the butterfly valve. So, in a way, the PacBrake is electrically controlled and goes on and off seamlessly just the way Cummins engineered it too.

 

When you take your foot off the accelerator, how long does it take for the exhaust brake to engage? I found a Pacbrake for about half the cost of the Jacobs, but I'm still on the fence as o which one to choose.

 

Here's kind of a random question... Could you tap into the air tank and use that to provide air for something like an air horn? I guess it'd have to be at 120 PSI, which I'm not sure if it is or not.

 

Sorry guys....gotta bump this. Curious about the answer.

 

Mine is instant.

 

[QUOTE=P.J;1300972]NO.

From what I read, the vacuum operated pump is VERY expensive to replace, not to mention it is constantly running as the motor runs.

QUOTE]

the only time my vacum pump starts is when the jake closes and the conv locks

 

Actually Chris, the pump runs all the time as it is spun by the serpentine belt. The ECM opens the solenoid and allows vacuum to be applied to the actuator on the brake after it locks the converter but the pump is spinning when your truck is running.

Brian

 

Something like $730.00 to replace?

 

I believe thats what other posters have said about buying it at the Dodge's retail price, and I also remember posts about buying it from Cummins (or another source) for less than 200 bucks. I have the documentation with both Dodge and Cummins part numbers but I won't worry about it til if and when the vacuum pump actually packs it in.

 

Festus, mine takes about 3-5 seconds to actuate, if I had a tank it would opperate instantly. You get used to it.
tom

 

Takes a couple seconds initially to lock the TC then activate, but once the TC is locked it comes on very quick, deactivates on downshift of course.

 

My Pacbrake is wired into the ECM. The ECM provides a 2 second delay from the time the go pedal is released. I have the 4" inline model because I am running twins, therefore turbo mount no good. I choose to run a air actuated vs. vacuum for a couple reasons. 1.It is a backup braking system, on vacuum actuated models if the vacuum pump fails the truck has no service brakes or exhaust brake. This way I have both. 2. I wanted onboard air anyways, I have a 100% duty cycle viair compressor plumbed into a 5 gal air tank that is dried and then goes to my ebrake or an air outlet attached to my grill guard.

Pacbrake is the way to go!!

 

I got a handshaker, so no waiting on TC lock for me.

bnold, I think I can live with two seconds. I see PacBrake has an accessory part to get it to come on immediately when your foot is off the go pedal. Then they have another accessory part, a clutch switch to disengage while shifting. Sounds like those two items are just too much wiring though. The two seconds I can live with I think. When I was driving OTR for my paycheck, you didn't have to wait at all for the engine brake to cut in, but I'm sure I could adapt.

 

I'm nearing 175000 miles and still have the original pads and shoes all around. I'd say the Jacobs has paid for itself.

 

Just for your info the vacuum and brakes thing is a non-issue on 3rd gen trucks as there is no vacuum tied into the braking system. Your second point is an excellent one however, I wish the guy from BD wouldn't have given me bad info about needing their lockup device or I would have had an air actuated brake as well. I can't complain about how the jacobs operates but onboard air would have been nice.