Re: [AMC-list] brake proportioning valve

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

I've been through EVERY TSM from 1965 to 83. Some models used them, especially the early and mid 70s, and some didn't. I only have TSMs up to 83, later Eagles may have used them. Could have been a government mandate, which doesn't necessarily mean it's needed, only that many cars did and someone in the government thought every car should have one. The factory tested (or calculated) what was needed and used it accordingly -- or not. I have a list of what used what somewhere... might have to make another! I think I posted the list on the AMC Forum a while back -- you might want to try a search there.

Bottom line is test the brakes. If you need one then install it and adjust it. In your case, you greatly enhanced the front brakes way over stock capability. There's no wonder that you needed something to reduce rear brake pressure. As it was from the factory the rear wheel cylinders and brake linings were matched to the fronts, as is with all drum brake cars (front and rear drums). When discs were introduced it took a while to figure out the balance -- easier to drop in a valve of some sort. Actually, the first AMC disc brake cars (65-66) were balanced by using low power non-servo drum brakes in the rear instead of the standard servo-action drum brakes.


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Date: Wed, 16 May 2012 19:06:55 -0700 (PDT)
From: d stohler<das24rules@xxxxxxxxx>


frank, i dont think your ENTIRELY correct on that prop valves were only used a few years in the 70's. all 3 of my eagles use them. they are the gm style and mount on the right hand side of the firewall down low way below the heater box. hard to find.
?
a prop valve is VERY important. especially when you move to disk brakes in the front. disk brakes take more force to apply than do drum brakes. but the disk brakes perform 10x better than drums. cooling, when wet, you? name it.
?
it was a HORRIBLE problem getting the rear brakes dialed in when i put the 13" mustang gt brakes on my '62 classic. now it will stand on its nose. the rear wheel lockup is BAD dangerous if happening before the front tires.

--
Frank Swygert
Editor - American Motors Cars Magazine
www.amc-mag.com

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