Exhaust brake??

[bobjeanmax]

We live in Colorado so camp often in the mountains. Our 2012 Solera Sprinter has a 6 cylinder, 3 liter, Mercedes engine with a 5 speed transmission. it has a paddle shiftier but I often get down to 2nd gear and still have to use the brakes. I've tried the Mercedes dealership and several repair shops and have not had success in getting information on adding an exhaust brake.

Does anyone know of a system compatible with this unit? If so, please send details.

Thanks

[SeaDog]

There may not be a Mfg provided exhaust brake for your rig however there are many aftermarket exhaust brakes that are sized to the exhaust system of a rig. Here is just one that might be worth looking at. https://www.xtremediesel.com/motorho...exhaust-brakes

[DieselDrax]

The problem with "universal" exhaust brakes is that they can cause issues with too much backpressure and forcing the exhaust valves open, etc. I would only use a vehicle-specific solution.

The Sprinter actually has a "Telma Retarder" as a factory option, these are electromagnetic, frictionless retarders that mount between the driveshaft and transmission, if you don't have the pre-wiring for it (Would have to look for the code(s) on the build sheet), you can retrofit one.

https://www.telma.com/produits/gammes-axial/ref/AF3

I don't know what the cost is, but I also see folks saying that even without them they have no issues with brake life even when running in the mountains.

[JLeising]

Replaced brakes at about 80,000 miles. Several trips across and through Rockies, both US and Canadian. From here in central California most trips include mountains, e.g. the coastal range, the Sierras, etc. I was surprised at how long the brakes lasted...
I don’t tow anything, but believe I am generally loaded close to max.