Western Diesel TurboBrake
Like the Tri-Power performance chip, Western Diesel's TurboBrake is a different take on popular turbodiesel modification. Unlike add-on mechanical exhaust-brake systems, the TurboBrake exercises the factory EBV valve to provide the backpressure. This valve, located on the exhaust side of the turbo, produces the hiss you may notice during cold-weather starts. When open, it makes the engine labor and warm up quicker for better performance and lower tailpipe emissions.
After one smooth turn, the TurboRamAir plenum provides a straight shot into the turbo. The design incorporates a cleanable, conical, foam air-filter element.
Exhaust brakes provide additional compression braking performance by creating backpressure through restriction to the exhaust flow. We've all heard the distinctive sound of heavy-truck Jake brakes on a downhill grade. Sure it sounds cool, but the Western Diesel TurboBrake doesn't provide that sound, just the braking benefits. Like the Tri-Power chip, the TurboBrake is controlled by a three-position toggle switch. The top and bottom switch positions produce green and red lights respectively for varying degrees of brake and transmission lock-up control. The microprocessor controls not only exhaust braking, but also torque converter lock-up during deceleration and acceleration when the switch is in the red or bottom position. In the center position, the light is off, indicating the TurboBrake is off. When off, the cruise control works normally. When the Turbo Brake is in the "On" (lighted) positions, the cruise control is disconnected.
Western Diesel's A-pillar-mounted TurboGauges allow the driver to keep an eye on boost, exhaust gas temperatures before the turbo, and transmission temperature while towing. Strapped to the chassis dyno, the PowerStroke showed a 129.5 hp increase with the Tri-Power chip and ProShot Package. Torque tops out at 773 lb-ft.
A second three-position toggle operates an idle-control function for cold starts, extended idling/cool down, or for PTO operations. Options include holding a steady 1700- or 2500-rpm engine speed, with the center position being off. As an exhaust-brake and idle-speed controller, the TurboBrake could be a smart choice for many.
SOURCE
Western Diesel Systems
Dept. TT10, 140 Pewitt
Brentwood, TN 37027
888/621-4006
www.westerndiesel.com