Jacobs Exhaust Brake

[STEVEBROOKS]

I'm interested in adding a Jacobs Exhaust Brake to my truck, and would like to get some inputs as to the best place to buy one. If you've done this, please tell me:



A. Where you got it (include phone number and/or web site if known)



B. Its price



C. Any installation advice (above what's in the instructions)



Many thanks!



Steve

 

[Shooter]

www.mopar4less.com



same place I got the truck.

 

[klenger]

I bought it here: http://www.klenger.net/dodge/general-reference/mechanicsville-dodge.html



Installation advice: It's a PITA to install, especially the vacuum pump. The serpitine belt is really a pain, but I don't do this stuff very often. Pay attention to how the belt is routed before you remove it. On my 04. 5, there is a small tube with some wires in it that goes from the bottom of the radiator to the center of the fan hub. I don't know if the 03's have this, but I assume they do. When I was putting the new belt on, it appeared that the tube was preventing the belt from going on, but I knew it had to work because I had just removed the old one. I think I spent about 10 hours installing mine, but the end result was very good. I tend to take longer than most people when installing stuff like this because I am very fussy about workmanship. I fugure that I save about $500 by buying the brake mail order and installing it myself. For 10 hours of work, that's $50 / hour.



Good luck and happy towing.

 

[Fireman]

Don't forget to put the old belt under the back seat. If (God forbid) your belt ever breaks you will have a spare. There is a diagram on the cross piece in front of the radiator to remind you how it goes on. You will have to by-pass the vacuum pump pully (losing your exhaust brake) but you will be able to get home.

Fireman

 

[klenger]

Fireman: Good suggestion. I plan to keep mine in a box with spare oil filter, fuel filter, oil, ...



My father in law was telling me that he had to change the belt on his truck in -40* weather in Alaska. I said I would have called a tow truck.

 

[lorirobert]

Does the Jacobs Exhaust Brake come as a complete kit with the vacuum pump and the hardware to install in your truck?





Robert

 

[klenger]

Robert:



Yes, it is a complete kit. The only exception that I am aware of is that you would need to buy a serpentine belt if your truck DOES NOT HAVE A/C.



You can download the installation, parts, etc. manuals from http://www.jakebrake.com/content.php4?doc uid=73

 

[tr3teddy]

I've got a new 2004 3500 Quad 4x4 Long Bed automatic ordered. Should be here toward the end of June. Should I wait on exhaust brake installation?



Ted

 

[klenger]

Ted: Read the fine print http://www.klenger.net/dodge/pictures/accessory-mopar-e-brake.gif



And welcome to the TDR.

 

[Prairie Dog]

After installing the e-brake, can you buy a replacement serpentine belt at an auto parts store or do you have to go to the dealer or Cummins?

 

[tr3teddy]

Thanks. I get the picture. Does it look like they'll get approval to install it on the newer automatics anytime soon.



Ted