Exhaust brake info

[StarTraveler]

I would like to add an exhaust brake system my truck, a 2003 RAM 3500 diesel 4 speed automatic and a 3.73 rear, but most of the documentation I’ve read seems to indicate that they are not compatible with the 2003 RAM with an automatic transmission. Does anyone that an automatic with an exhaust brake installed what band and how well did I work/ Are they difficult to install?

Thanks

[1ciderdog]

About seven years ago I had a 2001 Dodge 4X4 3500 with auto transmission and 3.73 gear. I added a banks exhaust brake and it did work somewhat but I ended up adding a transmission controller device that would lock up the torque converter when the exhaust brake was applied and then the exhaust brake worked very well. I pulled a heavy King of the Road fifth wheel and I think it was worth the investment. Having done this, my opinion: without locking up the transmission torque converter the exhaust brake would be a poor investment.

[450Donn]

It was not until 2006 that Dodge approved an EB for it's Cummins equipped automatic trucks. There are a slew of aftermarket EB's out there for the Cummins Automatic. Banks is one brand and probably the most expensive. I seem to remember that BD is the one that Dodge approved for 2006. Do some research and before purchasing, contact several of the suppliers and with the trucks information in hand they will tell you exactly what you need to order.

[CD]

StarTraveler
It's my understanding that with the auto tranny, you have to make some upgrades to the tranny as mentioned above. I am a big fan of the exhaust brake. I have a 6 speed manual. I have over 80K on the truck and probably 80% of the time it has been hauling or towing something. I still have over 50% lining on the pads.

[SuperGewl]

I've got the answer for you. I have the same setup and I have a Diesel Performance (BD) Exhaust brake with the TOWLOC auto tranny controler. BD Power - The Leaders in Diesel Performance It works great and I wouldn't tow without it.