Sure can mate - the autos tend to run away down hill, and hence you rely on the brake (not ideal especially if slippery as you want the wheels to roll and maintain traction). The reduction gears are incredible and allow you to traverse steep descents without relying heavily on the brake - I can now easily do 45 degree and greater descents in 4L first gear and literally not touch the brake and probably aren't cracking 4 klms per hour ...
The single best investment I've put into the rig ...