Reply to "Panic Braking"

One of the biggest problems with Pantera braking isn't even a brake issue; it's a suspension issue. As there isn't any anti-dive designed into the front suspension, hard braking causes the front end to "dive", which has the effect of transferring more weight (load) onto the front tires, making matters even worse. Therefore, if you put better (stiffer) shock absorbers and springs on the car, it reduces the "nose dive" and weight transfer that occurs during heavy braking. It will also give you better overall control during heavy braking.

As far as the pressure reducing valve in the front brake circuit is concerned, DeTomaso put it there to balance the front/rear braking pressure. Only remove it if you install larger calipers on the rear or install new calipers all around (in which case you should install an adjustable proportioning valve in the rear circuit).

Sure, some people remove the pressure reducing valve from the front circuit and say that it improved their braking but what they're talking about is braking during normal driving. Removing the valve has the effect of reducing the amount of brake pedal pressure required to slow down or stop the car and also gives the brake pedal a less "mushy" feel. Unfortunately, removing the valve upsets the front/rear brake balance which makes things worse in a panic stop situation, as the front brakes will lock-up sooner than if the valve was still there.