engine brake?

[2004tonner]

Hello, Just wondering if anyone uses or has used the tow/haul mode to help slow down the truck when coming to a stop (intersection, etc)? I'm used to manual trannies where you can select a lower gear and use the engine to decrease your speed somewhat, without resorting to using and wearing out the brakes prematurely. Currently driving my 6.0 with the torque shift auto and have played around with tapping the tow/haul button on when slowing down as the engine downshifts much like I did with my manual. I know there are engine brakes out there that I could install, but wondered if anyone sees any longterm or shortterm issues with using tow/haul in this application? I'd hate to have premature tranny issues or simply wear out the switch from overuse. Any and all thoughts appreciated!

[WarChild]

There is no issue with you using the tow haul button like you are. I do it occasionally.

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[juzatheman]

Hi, i got -03 excursion 6.0 and i too use it like you say.
not evry time but sometimes yes it save diesel too. Maby not that much but still.
I havent noticed yet after couple of year any issues that could be caused of that...

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[Galaxie]

Not an issue. I wouldnt do it everytime. I would rather the wear and tear on my brake pads not drive train though....

[Erwin8r]

I agree--I'd rather replace brakes pads slightly more often than worry about premature drivetrain wear. The Tow/Haul button works fantastic when towing in hilly terrain--gotta' love the almost "set it and forget it" nature of speed selection when going downhill...

BTW, is this some form of OEM engine brake? It sure feels like it (and pardon the ignorant question...).

Thanks!

[pete37922]

SCT has a jake brake on it...i use it on my truck...6spd manual tranny...it closes the turbo vanes...luv it works great...

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[shawnb99]

is your truck tuned, i love towhaul with a tuned 6.0, i currently run tunes by gearhead, and the towhaul is a little more aggressive than stock.

[pete37922]

My truck iz just canned tunes 4 now, but engine brake works great on truck...heard it works great on an auto also...couple guys in club have it on thier autos

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[2004tonner]

Originally Posted by pete37922

SCT has a jake brake on it...i use it on my truck...6spd manual tranny...it closes the turbo vanes...luv it works great...

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That's interesting! Hadn't planned on getting a tuner, but might be something worth looking into....

Thanks to everyone for the replies!