I am very new at this. When using the EB and down shifting on a steep down hill run, how high is it safe to let the RPMs go?

Is it easy to down shift and over speed the engine?

jr

 

I would keep mine at about 2500 rpm. If it's heavy you can over rev the engine pretty easy

 

The directions that came with mine say that for optimum braking performance it is necessary to keep engine RPM as high as possible, but do not exceed 3200 RPM (ISB).

I don't run mine that high, though.

 

Cummins says 3000 will not hurt it. I do it all the time winding down a hill with a load. All the time I mean like every day.

 

Thanks very much for the input and helping a neophyte.

jr

 

I noticed that you have the "jacobs brake".. Dodge won't sell them right now due to bad castings and causing fires...

 

I have known that there was a hold on installing the Mopar/Jacobs brake. Can you tell me where you got the information you stated above. I have been trying to find out from authoritative Dodge sources if it is safe to continue using my EB.

Most rumors cite a leak at the junction with the turbo. First time I have heard the bad casting idea.

The latest I got from the dealer was that they were to return all EB stock and an 'improved' version was to be available in December. The dealer had no information as to why.

jr

 

I have a PAC Brake, with an older automatic you also need a way to Lock the TC. Running both a Ram and a PSD I ate pads and rotors real regular before the EB's were installed. Both engines having over 300k on them not worried bout warranty. Personally. . .for diesel's haulin much I think an EB ought to be the law. JMHO

Cheers,
Steve J

 

OTR PU, I agree with "If I knew then what I know now I wouldn't do it in a PU" I agree 100% I would have gone with a bigger truck!

Barry

 

Here is a link to Jacobs driving instructions for their Ebrake:

http://www.jakebrake.com/service/pdf2/032491A.pdf

In a nutshell Jacobs says:

"To obtain the optimum braking performance from the Jacobs Exhaust Brake it is necessary to keep the engine RPM as high as possible, but not to exceed 3200 RPM. Select a gear that will cause the engine to operate as near to 3200 RPM as driving conditions permit."

FYI, 3200 RPM is redline for the 3rd Gen.

 

Ah ha! When all else fails, read the instructions. Thank you Jonesboro for the riminder and link.

As near to 3200 as you can but not over? I am new at the diesel truch thing and at 3000 it seems as though engine parts will soon be coming through the hood.

jr