2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Disk vs Exhaust- Which upgrade is better?

[Josparkz]

It seems that the spread in the price of these two items is getting smaller and smaller. I am wondering which one of them makes the most significant improvement. I am sure there are people who have done both of them . What are your opinions on which is the more helpful upgrade?

T. I. A.

 

[Mundgyver]

Since it looks like you are running an AT, your best bet would probably be to go with the disk. With the exhaust brake you would have to mod the transmission for lock up. I run with a 6 speed and for me the exhaust brake is the way to go. I have over 102,000 miles on the factory brakes since new.

 

[krs]

With either trans. an exhaust brake gives more slowing power than disc brakes will. They work best with manual trransmissions. With an auto you need a way to lock the TC on demand, and with both you'll need to upgrade to 60 lb. exhaust valve springs in a 12 valve engine.



I've got discs all around on our '01 truck and though they're better than drums there's nothing magic about them.



Exhaust brakes, though, ARE like magic - they can hold your vehicle to as slow as 20 mph on the steepest grade even when loaded to the max and I've never heard of one that fades.