4wd going down steep hills

[Kaena Point]

Did a little camping trip this weekend at a spot here on Oahu where you drive from sea level to about 1500 ft in about 2 miles. On the way down I burnt the hell out of my breaks (you could smell it), to the point where I had about 50% stopping power at the bottom. Obviously, this isn't good.

I'm wondering: if I put it in 4wd and coast down the paved road to save my breaks, is there any risk of damaging my transmission or anything else related to the 4wd?

Thanks and aloha!

Matt



8 miles of dirt road to the campsite!