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SteveSueMac · 05-31-2015, 11:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ghaynes755

I do the same thing with Tow/Haul as Ron. On the highway exhaust brake is on and not in T/H. Actually seems to improve MPG since you are in 6th instead of 5th gear. In traffic, either on the highway or in town typically use T/H as you get better down shifting if you need to slow down.

I think the manual says you have to engage exhaust brake on starting (and re-engage each start you want it). Are you saying you engage it whenever you like? Please say more - thanks!

I use T/H when descending or ascending a big hill but I don't come close to the 75% capacity the manual recommends for using it.

I also haven't engage the exhaust brake yet figuring I didn't want it on for an entire ride but if you can turn it on and off at will, that would be helpful!

dznf0g · 05-31-2015, 11:46 AM

You can turn it on or off at will.

SteveSueMac · 05-31-2015, 11:50 AM

Thanks dznf0g - man I feel silly! Have to go back and check that manual....must have misinterpreted something...

SteveSueMac · 05-31-2015, 11:53 AM

Here's the text from the diesel supplement;

Exhaust Brake
The heavy duty diesel pickups have
an exhaust brake to enhance the vehicle brake system, and reduce brake lining wear. A switch is used to activate the system, and is
located below the climate controls in the center of the vehicle instrument panel. The switch must be pressed
at each vehicle start for the system to be active. A light in the switch will come on when the exhaust brake is activated.

dznf0g · 05-31-2015, 11:55 AM

I admit, It should go on and expound. It does default to off whenever the engine is shut off, but you can switch it on or off whenever you want.

**moosetags** · 05-31-2015, 12:04 PM

Our Dmax is a 2011. I have always used the exhaust brake on any significant downgrade, but not otherwise.

As far as the tow/haul setting, I alway use it when carrying the truck camper and towing the Airstream. I don't usually use the tow/haul with only the truck camper on board even though it is right at 75% of load capacity.

Brian

SteveSueMac · 05-31-2015, 12:15 PM

So Brian - you just press the button at the top of a hill and shut it off at the end of it? I can't believe I've misinterpreted the manual for so long!!

**moosetags** · 05-31-2015, 01:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by SteveSueMac

So Brian - you just press the button at the top of a hill and shut it off at the end of it? I can't believe I've misinterpreted the manual for so long!!

That's exactly what I do. I just wish that they had put the exhaust brake button on the steering wheel. It is a little disjointed using it where it is.

Brian

cwf · 05-31-2015, 02:13 PM

2012 Dmax.. I turn on the EB when I start up for a tow. Yes, it 'turns off' when you cycle the key, but.... it's always on when TOWING... It doesn't affect towing.. only braking..
Agreed... to put the button where it is more .. usable... would be nice.

Thankfully I have a Nagrivator.. she pushes my buttons ... Yes, I am a lucky guy..

Tater · 05-31-2015, 05:52 PM

I use tow haul whenever towing the A/S or car trailer. The exhaust brake automatically goes off when stopped and it has to be turned back on at start up.......anytime after start up. Doesn't have to be immediately upon start up. I do turn my EB on when towing so I can use the extra braking when stopping.