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I hope you don't run into any 7 degree grades...that turns out to be 12%. But aside from that, I don't think either disc brakes or drum brakes should be subjected to steady pressure. So much heat is generated that the brake fluid can boil, leaving you wihtout any brakes at all. That's in addition to any thermal effects, which include expansion, warping, and glazing, that affect both discs and drums, which reduce braking capability.
Most authorities recommend using the brakes to reduce your speed to about five mph below your maximum speed and then releasing the brakes, allowing them to cool as your speed comes up again. To help reduce the need for braking, use a lower gear, the tow/haul setting on your transmission, or an engine (compression) or exhaust brake.
Bottom line, though, no matter what type of brake system you have, is don't ride the brakes.
Bob
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