Community Forums

NowGo · 07-01-2022, 06:56 PM

This my first post, although I have spent many. many hours learning from this forum. Thank you to all the posters who have uploaded so much technical information.
I do know this topic has been discussed extensively, and this post is a request for technical information only. Please do not reply with opinions on the legality, appropriateness, foolishness, or provide other advice on whether or not this mod should be done.
I have a Spartan chassis under a 2014 Anthem and I am simply hoping to get some information on how to eliminate the stop/brake lights from being activated by my engine brake.
I have spent many. many hours reviewing wiring schematics and this forum. I have checked the Spartan fuse panel diagram on my coach to see if there is a fuse I could pull that would stop the stop/brake lights from being activated by the engine brake (some posts reference being able to do that). No fuse is identified as the engine brake stoplight.
I have dealt with (and have prepared a schematic) on how to prevent the trailer brake controller from activating when the engine brake alone is being used (no service brakes being used). However, I want to eliminate the stop/brake lights from being illuminated by the engine brake at any time, trailer or no trailer.

If anyone has actually done this please let me know how I can go about doing this.

Thanks in advance

**TonyDi** · 07-01-2022, 07:05 PM

Have you tried calling Spartan?

**Lt Dan** · 07-01-2022, 07:07 PM

It can be done but will require reprogramming the ECM. I've considered doing the same thing.

Old-Biscuit · 07-01-2022, 07:20 PM

I'm curious as to WHY?

NowGo · 07-01-2022, 07:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TonyDi

Have you tried calling Spartan?

I have. When I described the issue and the desired change Spartan stated "There is nothing that can be altered to change any of the operations described above."

NowGo · 07-01-2022, 07:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lt Dan

It can be done but will require reprogramming the ECM. I've considered doing the same thing.

Thanks for the reply.

Reprogramming by Cummins service center, or is this a Spartan issue?

NowGo · 07-01-2022, 08:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Old-Biscuit

I'm curious as to WHY?

Thanks for the reply.

I would love to explain but...

I am sure my explanation would invariably lead to ongoing debate in replies from other posters (I have seen this on other posts about this same subject, ties up the forum with no resolution).

Sorry Old Biscuit.

**Lt Dan** · 07-01-2022, 08:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NowGo

Thanks for the reply.

Reprogramming by Cummins service center, or is this a Spartan issue?

Cummins Service Center should be able to do it, but I would call them to see.

Old-Biscuit · 07-01-2022, 09:49 PM

I'm just curious why the brake lights coming on when engine brake engages is an issue.

You have possible solutions so opine as to the WHY.

My exhaust brake/aftermarket/ doesn't and I would like it too so those behind me are aware I am Slowing down.

Can't imagine what harm or issue would be in brake lights coming on when slowing due to engine/exhaust braking

Rob_M · 07-01-2022, 10:58 PM

I don’t like when mine come on with engine brake either. There’s no safety reason for it, as it’s not slowing much faster than just letting off the accelerator. I can understand why with a more aggressive engine brake like an actual Jake brake, yes it could be a safety issue.

I simply don’t want other drivers to think I’m riding my service brakes down a hill when I’m not. And I DO want them to take notice when I actually step on the brakes.

Following this thread.

Gary.Jones · 07-01-2022, 11:27 PM

I think that you will find that the ECM can be programmed, but that Spartan will refuse to do it for you as it is a safety issue and it would make them legally liable for problems.

And the reasons should be obvious. The engine brake should not be on for routine braking all the time. That is what service brakes are designed to do. Engine brakes should be on when you are actually using them for braking and if you are braking, (slowing) then your coach brake lights should be illuminated. Simple concept

Gary

Turbojack · 07-02-2022, 07:06 AM

Nowgo, you should also start another thread where the opinions about the safety, and or what ever can be make. That thread will be 12 pages long before you know it and your thread as to how to stop the lights will not even make it one page.

RVFunlovers · 07-02-2022, 07:20 AM

The brake on the engine Cornerstone is serious if you use the middle or high setting. I don’t drive with the engine brake on and have mainly used it when going down a mountain. Sometimes I want to coast.

But I have used it when taking an exit or coming up on a stop light once in a while. The high section is aggressive. I would definitely be concerned about getting hit without brake lights with that much aggressive braking.

I don’t even like it that my tow vehicle brake lights don’t come on with that much brake. But I use the main brakes most of the time.

Sgt B · 07-02-2022, 07:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rob_M

There are many times that the engine brake is NOT slowing the vehicle, it is just not letting it gain speed going down a long grade. It’s there to save your service brakes from wear and heat.

And there are different types of engine brakes. Some provide more braking than others. The one on my coach is just a single stage pak brake.

Hmm, I don' know about your Engine Break, but every one I have had (3), the brake lights come on only when the engine break IS ACTUALLY slowing the vehicle e.g., I use mine all the time when on CC in mountainous terrain. If downhill speed exceeds CC setting by a certain amount (usually 5 MPH) the EB comes on and slows me to the CC set speed. Just because the EB switch is on and not energized, my brake lights do not come on. Additionally, my EB is rather aggressive so those brake lights need to be on.