Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Pac-Brake questions

[AClayton]

From reading several threads regarding exhaust brakes... it seems the Pac-Brake is a popular choice. I generally do not tow very heavy trailers but my trailer tips the scales at 4500lbs. It started out with a single axle ... . no brakes ,enclosed and is 12' long. i have added a second axle and brakes to both the original and added one and it seems to stop fine. I understand that the exhaust brake saves brakes and lends to the stopping ability. My questions are... . Will a trailer of this size be worth installing an exhaust brake?

And... how do I go about ordering one?I have a B-1 turbo and it has a 4" exhaust outlet with a Silverline downpipe. The outlet of my turbo is parallel with the road and does not have a downward pitch like the Banks brakes I've seen. I have seen on here before that members have brakes with aftermarket turbos. Is mine even able to have one installed?



Alan

 

[darkhorse]

You will need an in line style brake as the turbo mounted type won't work with your after market spinner.

 

[MAleshire]

The first question is whether or not you need an exhaust brake. If you can stop just fine with what you have, and don't anticipate towing anything heavier, then maybe you don't need one. I have a 10K trailer and won't consider towing without an exhaust brake. If you think you want one then there are some financial considerations before you even start looking. The brake won't be effective when using an automatic transmission without being able to lock up the TC. So, in addition to the brake you'll need to install an aftermarket device to lock up the TC, or wire up a mystery switch. The installer may also recommend installation of 60# exhaust springs. Although with a light trailer it may not be necessary. If you have the installation done at a shop you'll be looking at around

$1200 for the brake (in line model) and $260 labor. $350 for the TC lock and $300 labor, and around $60 more for the 60# exhaust springs and $100 labor. Around $2000 total. Your signature says you have gauges, and this is good, because with the TC locked up and using the brake, you'll need to monitor exhaust temps and transmission fluid temps. It would be good for you to hear from other members also, but unless you tow that light trailer alot, it may be less expensive to just replace your service brake a little more often. Good luck with your decision.



Skip

 

[AClayton]

I have the means of locking up converter already with the ATS Co-pilot. Although you mentioned exhaust springs... . nobody has mentioned that yet. I do tow this trailer alot... . only reason I bought the truck last year actually!Do the 24V's NEED the springs?



Thanks - Alan

 

[MAleshire]

Sorry Alan, I think the 24V's may already have those springs, but you'll need to check with someone more knowledgeable about your motor. The purpose of the 60# springs on the 12V motor is so you don't float the valves when trying to slow down a heavy load with the exhaust brake. Good luck!



Skip

 

[RClark]

i am considering a PacBrake also. I had one on my 93.
Do they still m ake a vacuum one that will fit a 2002?

 

[Pacbrake]

The 24v engine do not require the 60# springs. We do not make the Vac opp brake for the 2000 and up model years.



As for needing the brake with that trailer your really on the light side, don't get me wrong it will help you a lot it's just it will take you a little longer to get the return benifits $ wise.

 

[AClayton]

The 24v engine do not require the 60# springs. We do not make the Vac opp brake for the 2000 and up model years.



As for needing the brake with that trailer your really on the light side, don't get me wrong it will help you a lot it's just it will take you a little longer to get the return benifits $ wise.

I totally agree with you from a financial standpoint... . I do plan on keeping the truck as it is paid for. The trailer I tow is small and doesn't weigh much but the old gasser I had struggled to tow it efficiently... . 9mpg vs. 15 with the Cummins and 18mpg solo. I did not mention in my original post that my wife and I may sell our motorhome and consider a good 5th wheel. My current rig only yields about 8mpg vs and estimated 12 to 13 with the Cummins towing a 5th wheel of equal size. Don't know for sure about mpg ,just gauging what other members have stated towing their trailers. Thanks for the help and you may be hearing from me soon as others on this forum have tried to sway me to different brands. It is all about the choices but it seems that many TDR members choose the Pac-Brake from several thread searches I've done.