When should you use an exhaust brake on diesel?
An exhaust brake is a device that helps control the speed of a diesel engine, particularly on steep downhill grades. By creating backpressure in the exhaust system, the exhaust brake can slow the engine down without relying solely on the vehicle's service brakes. This can be an important safety feature for drivers of heavy-duty diesel vehicles, such as trucks and buses.
What is an Exhaust Brake?
An exhaust brake is a valve or flap installed in the exhaust system of a diesel engine. When activated, the exhaust brake closes off the exhaust flow, creating backpressure that slows the engine down. This backpressure is then transferred to the pistons, effectively acting as an additional braking force. Exhaust brakes are commonly used on large diesel vehicles, such as semi-trucks, buses, and heavy-duty pickups, to help control speed and reduce wear on the service brakes during long, steep descents.
When to Use an Exhaust Brake
Exhaust brakes are most useful in the following situations:
- Long, steep downhill grades: Exhaust brakes can help maintain a safe, controlled speed on long, steep hills, reducing the workload on the vehicle's service brakes and preventing them from overheating or fading.
- Heavy loads: Heavily loaded vehicles, such as fully-loaded semi-trucks, require more braking power to control their speed on hills. Exhaust brakes can provide that additional braking force.
- Towing heavy trailers: When towing a heavy trailer, the added weight and momentum can make it difficult to control the vehicle's speed on downhills. Exhaust brakes can help the driver maintain control.
- Wet or icy conditions: Exhaust brakes can be particularly useful in slippery conditions, where the service brakes may be less effective.
By using the exhaust brake, drivers can reduce the wear and tear on their vehicle's service brakes, which can extend their lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.
How to Use an Exhaust Brake
To use an exhaust brake, the driver typically activates a switch or lever in the cab of the vehicle. This opens and closes the exhaust brake valve, controlling the amount of backpressure generated. The driver should use the exhaust brake in conjunction with the service brakes, not as a replacement for them. The exhaust brake should be used to control speed, while the service brakes are used for stopping the vehicle.
It's important to note that exhaust brakes are not suitable for all driving situations. They should be used with caution, as excessive use can lead to engine damage or overheating. Drivers should always refer to the manufacturer's recommendations for proper use and maintenance of the exhaust brake system.
What is the difference between a Jake brake and an exhaust brake?
Conclusion. An exhaust brake causes engine braking by raising pressure, whereas a Jake brake causes engine braking by decreasing pressure. A Jake brake connects to the valve train, whereas an exhaust brake connects to the exhaust system. A Jake brake has far higher braking power than an exhaust brake.
Do exhaust brakes hurt the engine?
In fact, according to the factories, letting the pressure in the exhaust system exceed 40 PSI for Ford diesels, 55 PSI for the Chevy/GM DuraMax, or 60 PSI for Cummins diesels, can actually damage a diesel engine.
Why is exhaust braking illegal?
Jake Brakes are illegal in some areas due to the loud noise they create when compressed air is released through the exhaust. This noise disrupts residential neighborhoods, leading many cities and towns to prohibit their use near interstates and residential zones.
When to use exhaust brake 6.6 Duramax?
An exhaust brake should be considered as a necessary safety enhancement for any diesel vehicle that is used to carry heavy loads or used for towing, and a worthwhile addition to any Duramax-powered vehicle.
Is an exhaust brake bad for transmission?
In the last few years, Grant has seen exhaust brake-equipped trucks go 100,000 miles on the original brake pads! So in summation, yes, exhaust brakes can hurt automatic transmissions if the line pressure remains at stock levels in the transmission.
How often do you need to put DEF in a Duramax?
Given that an average tank holds about 5 gallons, this means you only need to fill your DEF tank once every 5,000 miles.
When should you not use an exhaust brake?
WARNING: Do not use diesel engine exhaust braking when the road surface is slippery. Failure to follow this instruction could result in the loss of control of your vehicle. Note: Installing an exhaust or auxiliary brake does not necessarily protect the engine from exceeding the maximum governed speed.
When should I use an exhaust brake?
Especially if the vehicle doesn't have a very high speed, drivers can use only the exhaust brakes for slowing down and stopping their cars, reducing the wear and tear on the regular brakes.
What are the disadvantages of an exhaust retarder?
This type of retarder is known as compression release engine brake or "Jake brake". A disadvantage of this system is that it becomes very noisy in operation, particularly if the exhaust muffler is faulty; its use is, therefore, banned in some locales.
What is the difference between a retarder and an exhaust brake?
A retarder is a hydraulic or electromagnetic device fitted to the output of the transmission or on the driveshaft itself. An exhaust brake is a device that opens the exhaust valves at the end of the compression stroke so the engine cannot gain back the energy it used to compress the air into the cylinders.
