Exhaust Brake Operation
Warning: Do not use the exhaust brake when driving on slippery or low-traction road surfaces. Failure to follow this precaution could result in a loss of vehicle control and possible personal injury or property damage.
- Before starting the engine, make sure that the exhaust brake is off. Wait until the engine has reached normal operating temperature to turn on the exhaust brake.
- When approaching a downhill grade, press the upper half of the exhaust brake switch to turn the exhaust brake on. When the exhaust brake is on, an amber light will illuminate behind the switch.
- Remove your feet from the accelerator and clutch pedals.
- While going down the grade, use a low enough gear to safely
descend with a minimum application of the service brakes. As a general
guideline, use the same gear as you would to ascend the hill.
The following conditions should exist if the brake is operating properly:
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A slight change in the sound of the engine may be noticed when the exhaust brake is applied.
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Exhaust smoke should appear normal.
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Engine temperature should remain in the normal operating range.
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Road speed usually decreases when the exhaust brake is applied during a descent. When the vehicle is carrying a heavy load or the grade is extremely steep, you may need to apply the service brakes occasionally.
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Do not expect a retarding effect similar to sudden hard application of the service brakes. The exhaust brake retards the vehicle with a smooth braking effect.
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During a descent, the tachometer usually shows a drop in rpm, depending on the grade and the vehicle load.
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Depending on the grade and vehicle load, you may or may not feel the retarding force acting against your body when the brake is applied. The retarding force of the brake may not always be noticed, but it is actually preventing the vehicle from going much faster.
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- Apply the service brakes to reduce the engine rpm or make a slower descent by using a lower gear.
- Make sure the exhaust brake is turned off before shutting down the engine.
Notice: Do not allow the engine to exceed its governed speed, or serious engine damage could result.
Note: The exhaust brake is only active when engine speed is between 1100 and 2700 rpm.