CUMMINS

Sentinel Exhaust Brake for 1989–1998 Dodge 5.9L Cummins (12-Valve)

The Sentinel Exhaust Brake adds powerful, reliable exhaust braking to 1989–1998 Dodge trucks equipped with the legendary 5.9L 12-valve Cummins, reducing brake fade, protect service brakes, and maintain safer downhill speeds when towing or hauling heavy loads. The 12-valve Cummins is known for simplicity and durability, but from the factory these trucks rely entirely on service brakes for downhill speed control. Sentinel provides strong engine braking without air systems, ECM or TCM programming, or complex installation—making it an ideal exhaust braking solution for mechanical diesel platforms. With the ability to generate braking force up to 80% of your engine’s maximum output, Sentinel delivers consistent, dependable exhaust braking performance. Installation is straightforward—often completed in under an hour—and every system is backed by a lifetime warranty.

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$1,398.00


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Description


Sentinel Exhaust Brake – 5.9L Cummins 12-Valve

Electric inline exhaust brake designed specifically for 1989–1998 Dodge 5.9L 12-valve Cummins engines. Sentinel improves downhill control, reduces brake fade, and protects service brakes when towing or hauling. Durable, simple, and built for real diesel work.

  • Electric inline exhaust brake — no air system required
  • Designed for mechanical 12-valve Cummins engines
  • No ECM or TCM programming required
  • Strong, consistent exhaust braking performance
  • Simple installation with basic tools
  • Backed by a lifetime warranty

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Performance & Use Case

The Sentinel Exhaust Brake is ideal for 12-valve Cummins trucks used for:

  • Towing trailers
  • Farm and ranch work
  • Utility and work-truck use
  • Long downhill grades and mountainous terrain

By slowing the engine instead of relying solely on wheel brakes, Sentinel helps provide more controlled and predictable braking under load.


SAFETY

Engine Braking Designed for Safer Descents

Older diesel trucks were never equipped with modern braking assistance.

The Sentinel Exhaust Brake enhances safety by:

  • Helping manage speed on long descents
  • Reducing brake overheating
  • Minimizing brake fade
  • Improving driver confidence when towing

This makes Sentinel a practical safety upgrade for classic 12-valve Cummins trucks.


HOW SENTINEL WORKS

Simple Electric Exhaust Braking

Sentinel uses an electric inline valve to create controlled exhaust back pressure, slowing the engine during deceleration.

Key benefits include:

  • No air compressors or air lines
  • Independent operation from engine electronics
  • Reliable braking for mechanical fuel systems
  • Durable gear-reduced electric motor

INSTALLATION

Straightforward Installation — Often Under an Hour

Sentinel is designed for easy installation using basic tools.

Typical installation includes:

  1. Inline exhaust brake mounting
  2. Wiring routing
  3. Controller connection

Because Sentinel operates electrically, it integrates well with mechanical diesel platforms.


INFORMATION

Throttle-Activated Automation (Optional)

Because the 5.9L 12-valve Cummins uses a mechanical throttle, Sentinel exhaust brakes can be automated using an optional micro switch that activates the exhaust brake in sync with throttle movement.

This allows the exhaust brake to:

  • Engage automatically during deceleration
  • Disengage smoothly with throttle input
  • Provide a more modern, driver-friendly braking experience

The micro switch is available separately and can be added during or after installation.


DURABILITY + WARRANTY

Built for Real Diesel Use — Backed for Life

Sentinel Exhaust Brakes are engineered to handle:

  • High exhaust temperatures
  • Heavy towing loads
  • Long downhill grades
  • Years of real-world diesel use

Every Sentinel Exhaust Brake is backed by a lifetime warranty.


FITMENT

1989–1998 Dodge 5.9L Cummins (12-Valve)

Fitment depends on:

  • Exhaust pipe diameter at the installation location
  • Available clearance for inline mounting
  • Existing exhaust routing or modifications

Bundy Motors can assist with fitment confirmation before or after purchase.


FAQ — 12-Valve Cummins

Does this work on mechanical 12-valve engines?
Yes. Sentinel is designed to work perfectly with mechanical diesel platforms like the 12-valve Cummins.

Is the exhaust brake automatic?
The exhaust brake can be operated manually, or automated using an optional micro switch tied to throttle movement.

Do I need an air system or engine programming?
No. Sentinel is fully electric and requires no air systems or programming.

Is this suitable for towing?
Absolutely. Sentinel is designed specifically for heavy diesel towing and hauling.


Upgrade Your 12-Valve Cummins with Sentinel Exhaust Braking

Add dependable exhaust braking to your Dodge Cummins and protect your service brakes on every downhill grade.

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Questions before ordering?
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