The compression brake Caterpillar offers as an option for its C11 and C13 diesels will be available on the C15 this fall, providing up to 600 retarding horsepower-25 per-cent more than what’s currently available.

A driver typically activates a compression brake using a toggle switch on the dash. With the Cat brake, a second switch lets him choose one of three different levels of braking effort (low, medium, and high). Compression braking is available provided engine speed is greater than a preset minimum (typically 800 rpm), and the fuel command sensory signal is less than or equal to zero, so no fuel is supplied to the engine.

The ECM can be programmed to operate the brake in three different modes: manual, coast, and latch. The coast and latch modes require that the Cruise Enable Switch be on. In manual mode, the brake system becomes active when the operator removes his foot from the accelerator. In coast mode, the compression brake doesn’t automatically activate until the operator applies the foot brake, and disengages as soon as the operator releases the foot brake. In latch mode, compression braking operates as in the coast mode, except that it remains on when the operator releases the foot brake.

The brake is compatible with anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Compression braking may be disabled by the ABS system if wheel slippage is detected. An “auto retarder in cruise” option allows the brake to come on while cruise control is active to help prevent the vehicle from exceeding the cruise control set speed.

The Cat compression brake provides 330 retarding horsepower for the C11 and 400 retarding horsepower for the C13.

More information is available at www.cattruckengines.com or from your local Cat dealer.