Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) AT with Exhaust Brake - Any value ?

[lizzyhermit]

Given all the discussions on the AT/Exhaust Brake issues, I have one question that I have not seen addressed.



Is there any value to using an exhaust brake with an unmodified AT and no lockout switch? Does it add any braking?



This isn't a hypothetcial question. I had my dealer install a Pacbrake shortly after I bought my truck new. Shortly thereafter I discovered the TDR, read of the dangers to o'heating the AT and disconnected the brake. It has been unused for about 5 years. I was just wondering (???????) in extreme situations and monitoring the trans temps, if there was any additonal braking to be gained.

 

[GFrance]

I had my Banks exhaust brake on for awhile without a lock up devise & noticed some drop in RPM when useing it but not much holding power without the torque conv. locked up. Got my controller last dec. when I had my transmission done at DTT. I was having TQC slippage & shuttering at 18,000 miles so decided to get the transmission done. Bill showed me that I was also having issues with 2nd gear probably do to the exhaust brake & no lock up. The crazy thing was when I ordered the brake from Banks they never told me I needed the controller & I'm sure I told them I had an auto. I'm still on the live & learn plan, but I've learned alot since joining this site. I only wish I would have known before I started bombing my truck.

 

[JGarcia]

Unfortunately, without lock up at the speeds or conditions in which you need the exhaust brake (which the stock transmission won't provide), it's not going to do anything for you. You can reconnect yours and try it for a little while to see what it does, you'll discover it's not much use. It's definately worth upgrading your TC and valve body and adding a controller to utilize your brake.



JRG

 

[jtwcummins]

I have been running exhaust brake on stock 47re for over 2 years, actually closer to 3. I also have the smart locker and w/o it the EBrake doesn't do anything. The smart locker is a 'smart' mystery switch. I run the EB all the time and haven't had any problem. I do get regular service on the trans and the dealer in San Jose, Hartziem, is an installer for Banks so they did tweak the pressure slightly.