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Essential Insight
Allison automatic transmissions paired with Cummins PX8 engines and Holset VGT turbos can deliver powerful exhaust braking, but factory settings often trigger aggressive downshifting and fan engagement that limit highway usability. Reprogramming the transmission’s exhaust brake logic can transform it into a smooth, effective retarder.
Allison Transmission and Exhaust Brake Integration
Allison Transmission, founded in 1915 and headquartered in Indianapolis, is a global leader in automatic transmissions for commercial vehicles. Their 6-speed automatic units are widely used in vocational trucks, including Peterbilt, Freightliner, and International platforms. By 2008, Allison had integrated exhaust brake compatibility into its electronic control modules (ECMs), allowing coordination with engine-mounted braking systems like Holset’s Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT).
The Holset VGT, developed by Cummins Turbo Technologies, adjusts exhaust flow geometry to create backpressure, functioning as an exhaust brake. When paired with Allison’s ECM, the system can trigger turbo actuation, cooling fan engagement, and transmission downshifting—all in response to throttle release and brake switch activation.
Factory Behavior and Limitations
In a typical setup:
Reprogramming for Smoother Retardation
A technician accessing the Allison ECM can modify the exhaust brake logic. Two selectable modes exist:
Fan Control Adjustment
Removing the cooling fan from the exhaust brake sequence prevents unnecessary noise and dust disturbance, especially on dirt roads. Operators can still engage the fan manually if additional braking is needed.
Field Anecdote
A service manager in Tennessee reprogrammed his 2008 Peterbilt 335 with PX8 engine and Allison 6-speed. After switching to alternate mode and disabling automatic fan engagement, he reported vastly improved control on mountain grades. The truck now decelerates predictably without abrupt gear changes, and the fan only runs when manually activated.
Additional Recommendations
Allison automatic transmissions with exhaust brake mode offer powerful deceleration, but factory settings may be too aggressive for highway use. By switching to alternate mode and customizing fan behavior, operators can unlock smoother performance, better fuel economy, and reduced wear. This simple reprogramming step turns a city-focused brake system into a versatile retarder for all terrains.
Allison automatic transmissions paired with Cummins PX8 engines and Holset VGT turbos can deliver powerful exhaust braking, but factory settings often trigger aggressive downshifting and fan engagement that limit highway usability. Reprogramming the transmission’s exhaust brake logic can transform it into a smooth, effective retarder.
Allison Transmission and Exhaust Brake Integration
Allison Transmission, founded in 1915 and headquartered in Indianapolis, is a global leader in automatic transmissions for commercial vehicles. Their 6-speed automatic units are widely used in vocational trucks, including Peterbilt, Freightliner, and International platforms. By 2008, Allison had integrated exhaust brake compatibility into its electronic control modules (ECMs), allowing coordination with engine-mounted braking systems like Holset’s Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT).
The Holset VGT, developed by Cummins Turbo Technologies, adjusts exhaust flow geometry to create backpressure, functioning as an exhaust brake. When paired with Allison’s ECM, the system can trigger turbo actuation, cooling fan engagement, and transmission downshifting—all in response to throttle release and brake switch activation.
Factory Behavior and Limitations
In a typical setup:
- Releasing the throttle and activating the exhaust brake switch causes the VGT to restrict exhaust flow.
- After a delay, the engine cooling fan engages, adding drag.
- At around 2100 RPM, the transmission begins aggressive downshifting, often hunting for 2nd gear.
Reprogramming for Smoother Retardation
A technician accessing the Allison ECM can modify the exhaust brake logic. Two selectable modes exist:
- Standard Mode: Default setting with early downshifting and fan engagement.
- Alternate Mode: Delays downshifting until 1200 RPM and allows manual fan control.
Fan Control Adjustment
Removing the cooling fan from the exhaust brake sequence prevents unnecessary noise and dust disturbance, especially on dirt roads. Operators can still engage the fan manually if additional braking is needed.
Field Anecdote
A service manager in Tennessee reprogrammed his 2008 Peterbilt 335 with PX8 engine and Allison 6-speed. After switching to alternate mode and disabling automatic fan engagement, he reported vastly improved control on mountain grades. The truck now decelerates predictably without abrupt gear changes, and the fan only runs when manually activated.
Additional Recommendations
- Consult an Allison-certified technician for ECM access and programming.
- Document current settings before making changes.
- Test changes in varied terrain to confirm effectiveness.
- Monitor fuel consumption post-adjustment—some users report improved mileage.
- Avoid excessive fan use to extend clutch life and reduce noise.
Allison automatic transmissions with exhaust brake mode offer powerful deceleration, but factory settings may be too aggressive for highway use. By switching to alternate mode and customizing fan behavior, operators can unlock smoother performance, better fuel economy, and reduced wear. This simple reprogramming step turns a city-focused brake system into a versatile retarder for all terrains.
