CAUTION: Observe the following cautions when driving a vehicle

equipped with a retarder:

• THE RETARDER WORKS ONLY WHEN THE ENGINE IS AT
CLOSED THROTTLE.
• OBSERVE TRANSMISSION AND ENGINE TEMPERATURE
LIMITS AT ALL TIMES. Select the lowest possible transmission
range to increase the cooling system capacity and total retardation
available.
• In the event of OVERHEATING, DECREASE THE USE OF THE
RETARDER; USE THE SERVICE BRAKES TO SLOW THE
VEHICLE.
• OBSERVE THE RETARDER/SUMP “OVERTEMP” LIGHT to be
sure it responds properly to retarder temperature.

NOTE: The transmission retarder is configured as either a low, medium,

or high capacity retarder. Retarder capacity configuration is determined
by the vehicle OEM. Allison Transmission requires vehicle OEM
approval before a service outlet increases the retarder capacity at
customer request. This vehicle qualification is to make sure existing
vehicle drivelines, differentials, axles, and cooling system are designed
for the additional retarder torque generated in a higher capacity retarder
configuration. Allison 4th Generation retarder requires only a TCM
re-calibration with the OEM approval for a higher capacity retarder.
Cost incurred to modify retarder capacity is the responsibility of the
customer.

NOTE: Allison 4th Generation retarder activation, response, and driver

requested retarder amount are characteristically similar but not identical.
Refer to the Types of Retarder Control Table in this section to see how
retarder modulation request (RMR) can be changed if desired to increase
or decrease retarder percentage apply. These controls are also OEM
determined and installed. Cost incurred to modify a RMR is the
responsibility of the customer.

NOTE: Transmission fluid level must be set correctly for highest

retarder effectiveness. As much as 2 liters (2 quarts) too high or too low
can reduce retarder effectiveness and increase transmission temperature.

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