Solutions Guide Revision 5
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2
Where is the best place to install a
proportioning valve?
The best place to install a proportioning valve is after
the distribution block.
Do Not install it between the
Distribution Bock and the Master Cylinder.
You will
not be able to get a hard pedal. Anywhere after the
Distribution Block and before the rear flex hose is
acceptable for installation.
Why should the flex hoses be
replaced? They look O.K. from the
outside.
Flex hoses should be replaced every time the calipers
are serviced. They flex up and down, just like a shock
absorber. They are also under high pressure internally.
Flex hoses have a rubber liner that will collapse over
time. If it does collapse, it will act as a check valve and
not allow fluid to return to the Master Cylinder.
Will my pedal get harder by replacing
the flex hoses?
No. When the flex hoses are replaced, re-bleed the
brake system. Normally what happens is that bleeding
causes a harder brake pedal. A better bleeding job and
taking your time will result in the same situation.
Are the rubber flex hoses expanding
causing a soft pedal?
Not likely. A soft pedal is usually a sign of air in the
system due to poor bleeding. Flex hoses have nylon
webbing that is molded into the internal rubber. It is very
strong and will hold up to 3,000 P.S.I. Installing braided
stainless steel hoses is not necessary; it only improves
appearance.
How much brake pressure does it
take to stop my vehicle?
Most vehicles, power or non power brake, develop
1,200 P.S.I. When you panic stop or jump on the brakes
hard, a surge of 1,400 P.S.I. can be achieved. If a
factory proportioning valve installed on the vehicle, the
rear brakes are only developing 600 – 700 P.S.I. Drum
brakes require lower pressure because they grab more
quickly. When rear disc brakes are installed, the rear
brake pressure may be increased to 800 – 1,000 P.S.I.
or more. A good way to check the pressures and to see
if the system is working correctly, use a pressure gauge
screwed into the bleeder port (SSBC part # A1704). A
vehicle with less than 600 P.S.I will not stop!
How tight should the wheel bearings
be?
The front bearings should always be torqued. Not just
hand tightened. Bearings usually require 12-15 Ft./Lbs.
of torque. Then you will probably need to back off a little
to align the cotter pin hole. Do Not over tighten; the
bearing life will be shortened. This procedure only
applies to rear wheel drive vehicles with separate
bearings and races. On vehicles with one piece sealed
bearing assemblies or hub assemblies, refer to a
service manual.
What type of differential fluid should
I use in my rear axle?
If you have positraction, use a Hypoid or Limited Slip
additive that is designed for your particular rear end. If
you do not have positraction, any type of 80 –90 weight
gear lube is acceptable. Fluid should be changed often
if you are trailering or any type of extreme usage. This
fluid does brake down with time and usage.