[VAC] Re: Exhaust brakes - A word of caution

[Don Horn]

Title: Re: [VAC] Re: Exhaust brakes - A word of caution

I was on a bus trip on a ‘56 GMC coach that had a Jake� brake (not the same as an exhaust brake, but similar).  It also is activated when the accelerator pedal is released.  On a long downhill stretch, the driver had his foot off the throttle the whole time, and activated the Jake brake by hand with the switch from time to time, mostly around curves.   It was a toggle switch mounted on the wall to the left of the driver, and they have had a momentary contact switch in addition to a regular continuous one.  

I don’t know if this technique would be practical with modern exhaust brake setups, but it seems like a way to add a little extra control in some situations where you want to be able to release the brake without hitting the throttle.    With your third hand on the wheel, you could play with the trailer brakes and the exhaust brake at the same time.  ;>)

Don

From: "Tom Patterson" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Date: Sun, 10 Jun 2001 11:36:03 -0500
To: Multiple recipients of VACList <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: [VAC] Re: Exhaust brakes - A word of caution

What other method of operation would you expect ?

What I was not aware of is the idea that the exhaust brake is either switched on or switched off and is activated every time you lift your foot from the throttle pedal.  I don't think I would like that method of operation.  Are all brands of aftermarket exhaust brakes activated in the same manner?