is running exhaust brake all the time ok?

Thanks all for the replies. I like using it, like I said in stop and go traffic, I almost don't need the brakes at all. I don't find it changes my shift patterns like TH does. As far as it making any noise, I would say a little, but only because of the "drag" on the engine as opposed to just coasting to a stop. It certainly does not make a noise like a jake brake on big rigs.

Anyway, thanks again, good discussion. This is my first diesel (aside from a Kubota tractor I used to own) so still learning little things about them.