Engine Technology and Valvetrain
From compression release to valvetrains and engine braking systems, we improve performance and reduce emissions in commercial vehicles.
The Jake Brake has a new home
Since the Jake Brake® was introduced in 1961, we have been a partner in the trucking industry’s quest for safe, reliable, and efficient commercial vehicles. Today, over 10 million Jake Brakes have been sold globally, and now the Jacobs Engine Brake® has a new home at Cummins. As part of the Cummins family, we will continue to supply you with industry-leading engine brakes as well as advanced valvetrain technologies to assist in meeting current and upcoming emission regulations.
Engine Braking
We lead the way in designing, testing, and manufacturing high-performing engine brakes for engine OEMs around the world. From Exhaust Brakes to High Power Density® Engine Brakes, we have a solution for your engine and vehicle application.
High Power Density Engine Brake
Jacobs High Power Density® technology is the lightest, most cost-effective, high-power vehicle retarding technology available.
Compression Release Engine Brake
The Jacobs® Compression Release Engine Brake reduces foundation brake load by turning your engine into a power absorbing air compressor.
Lashless Valvetrain with Engine Braking
Jacobs® Lashless Technology improves performance and efficiency while eliminating the need to adjust valve lash.
Bleeder Brake
Jacobs® Bleeder Brake technology offers a braking solution for applications on smaller displacement engines when cost and packaging is a consideration.
Exhaust Brake
Jacobs Exhaust Brake® enhances vehicle braking by limiting exhaust flow and boosting engine back pressure.
Valvetrain Solutions
Our advanced valvetrain technologies help OEMs around the world meet regulations by optimizing the engine and aftertreatment systems to improve emissions, fuel economy, and exhaust thermal management.
Cylinder Deactivation
Jacobs® Cylinder Deactivation (CDA) helps achieve stringent NOx and fuel economy standards, even during extended low load cycles.
2-Step Variable Valve Actuation
Jacobs® 2-Step VVA meets future transient emissions and fuel economy targets with minimal change to the base engine and aftertreatment system.
Variable Valve Actuation
Jacobs® Variable Valve Actuation and control systems bring you an entire suite of solutions to help achieve performance, fuel economy, and emissions targets. This can range from fully-flexible valvetrains to very specific, targeted variability.
Active Decompression Technology
Jacobs ADT® allows drivers to experience smoother start-ups with faster starting times and engine shutdown without engine-induced cabin vibration.
Cam Phasers
We’re making engines more efficient. Our engineers have evolved cam phaser technology for use in the demanding applications of commercial vehicles.
The journey continues
Year after year, we provide commercial vehicle OEMs around the world with engine braking and valve actuation advances that help them put market-leading trucks on the road.
WATCH VALVETRAIN SOLUTIONS VIDEOInnovation Timeline
The Engine Brake Story
A History of Innovation and Safety
The Start: 1931
Journey sparks the idea for what is now known as the Jake Brake®.
Patent Issued: 1958
First engine brake model evaluated on JN-6 Cummins Engine.
The Patent: 1955
Clessie Cummins develops original engine brake design.