what to do what to do

[skorski]

Ok got 4,500 on the 05 pull a 13,000 5th wheel and put around 20,000 a year . Should I put an exhust brake or not? If I do do I need to up grade anything ? And where will i notice the most damage if any . Had the pack on my 95. for 200,000 but had to bild up the trans with sun coast valve body and taque converter,and lock up from BD. we do a lot of pulling on hills. .

 

[FATCAT]

YES ... look at the PacBrake XB ... new for the 3rd gen trucks. Spend the $$$ to upgrade the transmission (assuming you have an automatic).



One accident will leave you saying "... why didn't I install an exhaust brake ... why!"

 

[Dosdon]

Don,t get to worked up over this, you,ll be just fine with your big dodge brakes, tow haul mode, and not to mention you also have trailer brakes. If you run out and buy every optional you can,t live without accessorie available for your truck somebody will just tell you you forgot something and then you,ll just have to go start feelintg guilty all over again.

Your truck is so much more than the haulers of yesteryear. How is it that they got by, and all of the sudden, we with are much to do about nothing technology, are afraid to venture forth with weaponry that they dare'nt even dreamed

of. Venture forth I tell you oh venturous one and liveth the life of the recreational RV,er. And oh ya, use so common sense, like watch your speed , and above all else

just drive defensively.

 

[OT-OF-HERE!!]

Another option to your problem

You definitely need to at least go with a upgraded torq converter and valve body. I would recommend ATS's Commander as you can lock up each gear on that auto with it and it holds you back descending hills with a load.

 

[JRMora]

YES ... look at the PacBrake XB ... new for the 3rd gen trucks. Spend the $$$ to upgrade the transmission (assuming you have an automatic).

I believe Pac says the PRXB is a no-no for autos - unless you have a heavily modified transmission. No warranty for autos. I believe you CAN use the regular Pac, though.



I drive a 6 speed, but it makes a huge difference in the hills for me. Just be aware that Dodge hasn't (yet) approved a brake for any aut 3rd gens (though supposedly the 06's will be finally approved).



Juan

 

[SHobbs]

Can honestly say that I would not be without my Jake. Drove to Oregon not to long ago and it was worth the money. On a 6 or 7% grade in 4th gear I did not have to touch my brakes once, the truck stayed at 45 to 50mph all the way down each hill and my 5er is around 12,500lbs. I did have to watch the pyro though due to the turbo getting warm with brake on but it was no big deal just let off of it and get back into it. There are autos out there with engine brakes just takes some mods and a watchful eye.