2012 MaxxForce7 Delivered with Engine Exhaust Brake

[DriVer]

Attending the Ocala RV Show, I went aboard both a 2012 Monaco Vesta and a Holiday Rambler Trip. Both of these rigs were equipped with a RED toggle switch in the left arm rest labeled "Engine Brake." More than just a bolt on device, the MF7 engine brake requires engine modifications, ECM programming and also features an automatic transmission downshift schedule which is applied when the engine brake is working. The brake is located immediately downstream on the turbo outlet manifold.

The MaxxForce7's powertrain now appears complete with the new engine exhaust brake. Previously not available, this device should be a welcome upgrade for 2012 which has been asked for time and again by potential owners.

I expect that the engine exhaust brake will now be a standard feature and it should also be available in 2012 Workhorse "D" model W Series.

[VestaDave]

Any chance of a retrofit for 2011 maxxforce 7 owners? The unit could really use an exhaust brake.

[Mrpictureman]

I just wonder about it being cost effective.

Fred J
2012 Tiffin Breeze
SoCal

[VestaDave]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mrpictureman I just wonder about it being cost effective. Fred J 2012 Tiffin Breeze SoCal

Maybe so, but going down a 8 percent grade an exhaust brake would be good. If it were available I would opt to purchase and install on my Vesta.

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by VestaDave Maybe so, but going down a 8 percent grade an exhaust brake would be good. If it were available I would opt to purchase and install on my Vesta.

Don't count out the aftermarket vendors. If it's possible at all, I bet that they are going to try it.

On the new 2012 engines with the exhaust brake, I know it's the device, the mechanical changes and electronic programming. Won't be easy.

[VestaDave]

Quote:

Originally Posted by DriVer Don't count out the aftermarket vendors. If it's possible at all, I bet that they are going to try it. On the new 2012 engines with the exhaust brake, I know it's the device, the mechanical changes and electronic programming. Won't be easy.

I hope you are right.

[VestaDave]

Quote:

Originally Posted by DriVer Attending the Ocala RV Show, I went aboard both a 2012 Monaco Vesta and a Holiday Rambler Trip. Both of these rigs were equipped with a RED toggle switch in the left arm rest labeled "Engine Brake." More than just a bolt on device, the MF7 engine brake requires engine modifications, ECM programming and also features an automatic transmission downshift schedule which is applied when the engine brake is working. The brake is located immediately downstream on the turbo outlet manifold. The MaxxForce7's powertrain now appears complete with the new engine exhaust brake. Previously not available, this device should be a welcome upgrade for 2012 which has been asked for time and again by potential owners. I expect that the engine exhaust brake will now be a standard feature and it should also be available in 2012 Workhorse "D" model W Series.

Just got the Vesta back from the shop after a 2 month stay at the dealer because of an unfortunate accident. I was on my way to the dealer when the crash occurred because of a recall on the tranny. Took it out today for the first time since the transmission fix. I'm happy to report that I can now take hills without white knuckles. I still would like to have an exhaust brake but I got to say this fix is a great improvement. Any other Vesta owners had this repair done?

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by VestaDave I'm happy to report that I can now take hills without white knuckles. I still would like to have an exhaust brake but I got to say this fix is a great improvement.

VestaDave, Improvements are always a good thing .... glad to hear you're back on the road.

[orpco]

Are you referring to the shift pad and cable replacement? Mine was done a couple of weeks ago. I didn't notice any difference but i had it on no hills driving it home. What improvement did you notice?

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by VestaDave I hope you are right.

VestaDave, Can you please take a moment and go to the User CP and setup your signature file so we can see your the Year, Make and Model of your motorhome!

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by orpco Are you referring to the shift pad and cable replacement? Mine was done a couple of weeks ago. I didn't notice any difference but i had it on no hills driving it home. What improvement did you notice?

orpco, Can you please take a moment and go to the User CP and setup your signature file so we can see your the Year, Make and Model of your motorhome!

[VestaDave]

Quote:

Originally Posted by orpco Are you referring to the shift pad and cable replacement? Mine was done a couple of weeks ago. I didn't notice any difference but i had it on no hills driving it home. What improvement did you notice?

Yes I believe so.We live in CA. And there are lots of hills. There were a couple of issues relating to the trans. First, the Econ setting was not functioning. Second, the transmission on big downhills would sometimes jump out of gear into neutral . This was particularly true on steep 8 percent grades. You will be glad you had the repair done the first time you start to go down a long very steep grade. Now that the repair has been done the trans does not jump out of gear and the MH speed is more easily controlled. The feeling of "free falling" wasn't fun. I haven't tried the Econ. setting yet but I hope that it helps.

[bodycoach2]

We have a 2010 Thor Serrano, and would love to get an exhaust brake upgrade! Please post any links to aftermarket kits when they come available.

[DriVer]

Quote:

Originally Posted by bodycoach2 We have a 2010 Thor Serrano, and would love to get an exhaust brake upgrade! Please post any links to aftermarket kits when they come available.

bodycoach2, OE MF7s w/ EBs have different turbo plumbing and construction. I will not offer to never say never, but pre-2012 engine w/o EBs are going to be difficult to retro.