Brake fluid proportioning valve adjustment

[Andy 2]

I just installed helper springs on the rear leafs of my 89 Power Ram 50. The bed sits a bit higher now and the suspension is much firmer. Does anyone know if the proportioning valve should be adjusted and if so how is it done? It would stand to reason that if more fluid is diverted to the rear when carrying a load, then raising the bed would cause less fluid to be sent to the rear drums. Is my theory correct?

[pennyman1]

To a point yes - but the other issue is that with the helper leafs, the suspension will not compress as much and the valve will not adjust the pressure to compensate for the weight. The best solution if you are planning to constantly haul heavy loads is to swap out the proportioning valve with a manual one you could adjust to your needs. This is done on race cars to adjust brake bias front to rear for different tracks, and will work for various loads in your truck. It is a better solution than the disconnect the spring on the arm so the rear brakes see full pressure all the time method - the rears could lock up easily when empty.

[camoit]

You can always make the rod longer and make it think the truck is lower or hauling a heaver load.

[Andy 2]

As a metal fabricator I think I'll try that route first. I can make an adjustable mount for the spring and play around with it. If the results are not to my liking I'll go the route suggested by Pennyman1. Thank you gentlemen.

[camoit]

Let us know how it comes out. And get us some pictures of what you did. It will help the next guy.

[Andy 2]

Will do.

[Andy 2]

As it turned out there was enough adjustment in the bracket. All I had to do was loosen the bolt and slide the adjuster over.