Weekend maintenance on the '01

[Dan_69GTX]

When I replaced the fan in the '96 I used an aftermarket metal fan. It was close to the balancer, but the fan will pull (flex) itself away from the balancer.

Here is the link with the details
https://www.turbodieselregister.com...-coolan-fan-blade-where-can-i-get-one.252476/

 

[NIsaacs]

Thanks Dan, that was a good write up. Are you still using the fan and aftermarket fan clutch? I tried 2 Hayden's with no luck at all, so I am back to oem.

Changed out the coolant/flushed the system and flushed out the heater core with some toilet bowl cleaner Added some Red Line Water Wetter, they claim it is the "cats meow" Gary, any updates on your VP coolant additive? I even removed the overflow bottle and gave it a good cleaning.

 

[Dan_69GTX]

I sold the truck when I got the new one, so no, I'm not still using it.

Regarding fan clutch - I just think it is a crap shoot to see if you get one that might actually work for any length of time.

 

[GAmes]

Today is the first day of towing since I added it. However, we are having a cold snap here, temps never got to 90, so not much of a test so far.

 

[NIsaacs]

Replaced my Reese Pilot, brake controller today with a Prodigy P2. Old one was time based, this one is proportional/inertia based. This new one is reverse voltage protected, the old one was not. I never have liked the Reese so this thread of Greg's was the nudge I needed.

https://www.turbodieselregister.com...-my-itbc-during-a-roadside-inspection.267247/

 

[Cummins12V98]

Tekonsha is quality but IMHO the P2 is a POS.

 

[NIsaacs]

Tekonsha is quality but IMHO the P2 is a POS.

What's wrong with it? I have never had one but it seemed to be a quality controller out of the 5 choices of Tekonsha proportional models. It is somewhat sophisticated/complicated to adjust, trying to balance the boost level with the gain. You do have to read the instructions or you wont understand all the features. I haven't hauled a load yet, just using the empty trailer to test/set it up.

https://www.etrailer.com/dept-pg-Brake_Controller-sf-Proportional_Controller-pm-Tekonsha.aspx

 

[DavidC]

From what I understand or read the most recommendations for was the P3. Just my $.02.

 

[GAmes]

I have quite a few towing miles on my P2. I don't have any complaints.

 

[NIsaacs]

From what I understand or read the most recommendations for was the P3. Just my $.02.

From reading the specs it appears the P2 mechanicals are the same as the P3. The only difference is more money and more of a custom display. There are so many controllers it is hard to pick and choose. I have had my share of junky ones....

 

[Cummins12V98]

If you like to change the boost in slow driving so you don't go thru the windshield of hit the brakes on the freeway with nothing there then have to up the boost have at it.

P3 is a big improvement. Buying new stick to P3.

 

[NIsaacs]

If you like to change the boost in slow driving so you don't go thru the windshield of hit the brakes on the freeway with nothing there then have to up the boost have at it.

Your explanation/teaching skills, suck

 

[Cummins12V98]

Your explanation/teaching skills, suck

Probably so, If you can return the P2 and get the P3 you will thank me.

 

[NIsaacs]

If you can return the P2 and get the P3 you will thank me.

I don't return merchandise unless it is defective. If it turns out I purchased the wrong unit, that is on me. Per E-Trailers site, there are 1822 reviews on the P2 with a 4.9 rating out of a five. I did notice several negatives on the P3 with the up-down buttons sticking. A few negatives on the P2 for not having auto dim on the LED. That has been fixed for 2019.

 

[Cummins12V98]

Just remember to up the boost before getting back on the highway. Not a good feeling to hit em hard and not much there.

 

[NIsaacs]

Just remember to up the boost before getting back on the highway. Not a good feeling to hit em hard and not much there.

How am I supposed to remember that? I can't remember to change from empty to loaded and back I am anxious to haul a load, I like it empty, so far. The old style swinging pendulum inertia controllers were junk, this one actually appears to work proportionally as advertized. Smooth as silk so far. Time will tell.

 

[DavidC]

How am I supposed to remember that? I can't remember to change from empty to loaded and back I am anxious to haul a load, I like it empty, so far. The old style swinging pendulum inertia controllers were junk, this one actually appears to work proportionally as advertized. Smooth as silk so far. Time will tell.

Lot's of sticky notes plastered everywhere, they are becoming one of my must haves . Let us know how it works out with a load.

 

[GAmes]

Nick, I don't mess with the boost number at all while driving. If it is a light trailer I set it on 0 or 1. The heavier the trailer the higher the boost number. I seldom touch the voltage wheel at all. If it locks up the trailer wheels I decrease it a little, usually the boost number.

 

[Cummins12V98]

I do wish you the best of luck. I'm just reporting my experience. I also have a P3, nothing compared to MaxBrake but light years ahead of the P2 IMHO.

 

[NIsaacs]

Nick, I don't mess with the boost number at all while driving. If it is a light trailer I set it on 0 or 1. The heavier the trailer the higher the boost number. I seldom touch the voltage wheel at all. If it locks up the trailer wheels I decrease it a little, usually the boost number.

Thanks Gary. It is rare for me to mess with the controller while moving. If I forget or it is not quite right I will stop somewhere. Currently have it on 8.5, full on manual, boost one. With a normal stop, I get about 4.5 volts gain with the brake pedal. Again, this is an empty trailer, but it is heavy, 6500#. I am hoping, once I get it dialed in, I can leave the gain alone and just change boost levels, from loaded to empty. I realize if I change trailers I will need to adjust something.