Diesel Sprinter downshifting to slow question ?

I can't say the compression braking on my 6 cylinder Sprinter is anything like it was on my prior Cat Diesel pusher. However, I like the kickdown shifter, use it on nearly all downgrades. You get some braking, but mostly it decreases the amount of speed buildup. Then if you need to, brake hard and short, as others say.

I like the way this rig takes the mountain driving, both going up and down. Chinook and Cayeuse passes east of Mt Rainier were a pleasure to drive this past week.