Method and apparatus for controlling nozzle temperature during engine braking

A method for controlling a fuel injector nozzle temperature during engine braking, comprising the steps of:

• determining whether an engine brake is engaged;
• determining whether an engine speed exceeds a predetermined engine speed threshold;
• and
• injecting a predetermined amount of fuel per stroke using a fuel injector if an exhaust throttle is engaged and if said engine speed exceeds said predetermined engine speed threshold;
• wherein said predetermined amount of fuel cools said fuel injector nozzle, thereby allowing said exhaust braking to be performed without damage to said fuel injector nozzle due to excessive heat.

An apparatus for controlling a fuel injector nozzle temperature during engine braking, comprising:

• a fuel injector having a nozzle and capable of injecting a predetermined amount of fuel into an engine;
• a processor connected to said fuel injector, with said processor monitoring engine operation and capable of causing said fuel injector to inject said predetermined amount of fuel into said engine;
• and
• an exhaust throttle position sensor communicating with said processor and providing an exhaust throttle position signal indicating when the exhaust throttle is engaged,
• wherein said predetermined amount of fuel is injected into said engine to cool said fuel injector nozzle, thereby allowing said exhaust braking to be performed without damaging said fuel injector nozzle due to excessive heat.