1999 dutchstar dp auxilary brake

[ZACFRD]

Can anyone explain how to properly operate my engine brake and my alison trans? I beleive these are programmable and I have no idea how or when to set diffrently. Very new to this dp stuff

[bigskymt]

It would be very helpful if you could identify your system. Cat or Cummins, Jake Brake or Pac Brake.
A Jake Brake should have a lo/hi setting, a Pac Brake on/off.
With either type once the switch is 'on' the brake will activate when you release the accelerator. In some applications the activation procedure can be programmed differently by the engine manufacturer.
A search for "exhaust brake" here will result in hundreds of threads regarding its use.
Use of an exhaust brake under slippery conditions is not recommended.
Use on steep downgrades may result in too high engine RPMs and require extra braking.
Your Allison trans is probably programmed for 2: will downshift to second gear under exhaust braking. Under some applications this can be changed to a higher number.

[Skip426]

ZACFRD,I have a 99 DSDP,F/L, Cat/Allison , Pac Brake. the only thing I can add to ,bigskymt's post is that if you chose not to pay to have the programing done , watch your tach. On downhills with engine brake on when the RPM drops to 2000, the trans will go down another gear. If your moving at a comfortable speed, then a very slight throttle application to keep the RPM up will stop the down shift.