Newbie Questions - Please help!!

[TDovi]

Newbie questions. I bought my 2003 last year, used with 9000 miles on it. Well cared for in absolutely NEW condition. Purchased a new Mobile Suites 5th Wheel at about the same time. Loaded / pulling weight is about 13,200# which about max. out the truck. (3. 73 Rear end). We have towed the 5th Wheel about 10,000 miles in all sorts of terrain and temperatures and have had no problems. I read so much about needing an exhaust brake. I have brakes working on four axels and eight wheels. Would the exhaust brake really help all that much? I slow down before the hill and shift out of OD. Doesn't seem to be a problem. Also, some question about not using OD. I use it whenever terrain permits, again no problem. I wouldn't mind a little more power going up-hill. Would the Edge / EZ do the job? I read somewhere in your threads that it should be set to zero (inop) when pulling heavy loads. Where is the help in that? Going up hill with a maximum load is where I need the extra power. Sorry this is so long. Perhaps some of you experienced Lads or Lassies could help this Newbie out. (I know, which way did you come in?) Thanks!!

 

[MABurns]

Perhaps with a little more information, you will get a better answer.



Where do you live? Florida hills are different than the land or Coors Light HILLS.



Dually or SRW?

 

[TDovi]

Sorry about the lack of info. I filled out a truck profile and thought it would automatically tag to the thread. SRW truck with Air Lift air springs. I live in AZ in the mountains. We have many long, 6% or greater grades. More important is where I drive or travel to. Oregon, 8% twisty from I5 to 101, awesome!! South Dakota, Rapid City through Mt. Rushmore, Custer NP. Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico, SR 65 from Branson, MO to I40 (Killer road), Smoky Mtn. Nat. Park, South of Knoxville, TN, You get the picture. If there are mountains around, we find them. Admittedly, I really slow down when approaching a steep grade. I haven't had problem one. What am I missing not having an exhaust brake. Is it enough to trade in the '03 for an '05 with a stick shift just to get an approved exhaust brake setup? Thanks for your response!!