Abstract:
A controller of an internal combustion engine receives a request for engine braking and, in response thereto, activates an exhaust braking subsystem. Additionally, after passage of a period of time, the controller further activates a compression release braking subsystem. The period of time is preferably selected to permit development of increased back pressure in an exhaust system of the internal combustion engine prior to activation of the compression release braking subsystem. Additionally, following activation of the exhaust braking subsystem, the controller may whether the exhaust braking subsystem has failed and, if so, cause the compression release braking subsystem to operate in a reduced braking power mode, for example at less than full braking power potentially down to and including no braking power.