I will be putting a jake brake on it. It does have new brakes and drums all the way around and the brakes are air brakes. Safety will always be first. I will always own a newer 3/4 or 1 ton truck. I have a new 3500 dually with 1500 miles on it to tow if needed. I really bought the truck because I think it will be cool/convenient when done. To be honest with all my time being taken with businesses and with young kids I may not race for a few years anyways. It will be fun to tinker on and make just the way I want it when time allows.