Installing a Brake Proportioning Valve

A brake proportioning valve is important in your car because it helps to ease up on some of the pressure that is going to the front brakes when you slam down. This valve helps them to lock up right before the rear brakes do which is essential in proper and safe braking systems. If you find that the brake proportioning valve in your car needs to be installed, it is a pretty simple task to accomplish on your own. The valve will need to be placed into the front line and then the pressure will be dialed down. If this is something that interests you, here are a few tools that you will need to get this job started along with some steps that can guide you through the process with ease.

Step 1 - Clean

Begin by cleaning all of the fittings and parts around where you will be working. While it is important for everything to be clean, this step is more important because it allows you to become familiar with what is going on in that area. Check the manual and look over it to make sure that you know what is going on.

Step 2 - Find Brake Line

Consult the manual and find the brake line. The brake lines are coming from the master cylinder and the one that is placed on the inside is for the front line.

Step 3 - Slide on Valve

Now you can slide the brake proportioning valve onto the line. Many times it is best to set it up next to the ABS or anti lock brake system control unit. The brake line will need to go in through the master cylinder and then out towards the ABS control unit.You may need to cut part of the brake line to get the valve on.

One of the most important parts is to make sure that the valve doesn't rub up against the lines. This can cause quick and serious wear and tear and eventually damage to the car or the person driving it if the brakes go out. Take your time to place it in there and make sure that it is free.

If at any time you feel as though there may be a problem, stop what you are doing and contact a professional. While this can definitely be done on your own, other problems can occur and they are better dealt with by someone with more experience.

Step 4 - Bleed Brakes

It is extremely important to bleed the brakes once you have finished with this task. Then test out the brakes in a place near by before getting onto a real road to be sure that everything is working properly.