I purchased a used 2004 Chevrolet 2500 HP Diesel 4X4. It has the heavy duty towing package. I will be pulling a fifth wheel weighting between 12,500 and 13,500 pounds loaded.

Question: Do I need to install an exhaust brake? I have been receiving conflicting advise.

If you have a good quality brake controller and the trailer brakes are regularly serviced and in good working order, then no you don't need an exhaust brake. If you have the Ali you have the tow/haul grade braking as well.

I would say try your set up. If you don't mind how it works, don't add the brake.

If unhappy, then add. People around here tow heavier, and don't have engine brakes. But others do.

Try the towing forum, aswell.

You are descibing my truck.

At first I tried it without an exhaust brake. Not bad, but there were a number of hills that made me nervous. No, a couple scared the s__t out of me.

What is nice about an exhaust brake is that you rarely use the service brakes when descending a hill. Use the switch to turn it on and off, because it will slow you down a lot.

I do not use it all the time while towing, because the Allison and it's grade braking feature is great.

I find that coming off a freeway while not towing just switch it on and only use your brakes at the final stop.

Happy towing.

i thought exhaust brakes were a no-no and that an engine brake was better way to go?

I have the BD brake and would never go without now. I am only pulling 10/K....but enjoy the extra measure of security. Also makes for a good way to warm up the engine faster.

Polar,

You will find that the 4500 and 5500, topkick???, medium duty trucks offer the "exhaust brake" as an option.

The stealer will try to hang anything on the brake, including a flat tire. DO NOT go to Fitzpatrick Chev in Concord, CA. the SM is a b__t. Every other word is "it must be caused by the exhaust brake."

A "engine brake" is only available on the BIG TRUCKS, since it plays games with the valve train.

Hope this helps.

Agree with motovet - wouldn't tow without it.