2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Advantages to running an exhaust brake?

[CumminsPower98]

I run a BD and I too use only the 2 speed switch on the shifter. I wouldn't have it any other way. I do not like those with the micro switch the way they are coming on all the time when not needed or wanted. At 402k miles with many of those miles driving OTR I am still on my original rear brakes with lots of life left and have about 280k on the fronts and lots of pad left. I have the HD exhaust valve springs of course and use the brake empty all the time. I have a hard time when driving the car as I find myself wanting to reach for the little red knob. I have had a number of people ask me if I had a two speed axle when they saw that switch.



Mine came with the switch and bracket. It also came with the microswitch hookup option.

 

[Doubleclutch]

Dave- it's an Eaton-Fuller switch... not too hard to find. Only problem with them that I've seen is the shaft gets a little loose and can rattle a bit. Doesn't bother me, but the passenger can get a little disturbed... Unless I have the stereo up loud enough for ME to hear! :-laf
One question almost answered is "vacuum or pressure to activate the brake piston"? I like compressed air because it's useful for other things like air horns etc. ALSO, you can buy a quality air compressor and install it anywhere (if one doesn't come in the kit).
4x4Bob- My old pacbrake had the hole in the disc that was sized for an automatic... per the Pacbrake folks... "Drill it out to X/16th for your manual transmission... leading me to add to BLACKBEARS comment about exhaust springs... You don't need to install the 60# exhaust valve springs if you're willing to have less backpressure (bigger hole in disc) and live with less retarding.

 

[CumminsPower98]

I hated my switch rattling but fixed it easily with a small thin o-ring. I just cut it and wrapped it around the shaft. It has worked great for a long time.

 

[PC12Driver]

I put a bead of silicone around mine to stop the rattle.