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To Remove the Proportioning Valve or Not to Remove the Proportioning Valve? That is my question…

OK. I’ve read just about all the discussion threads w.r.t. the brake system Proportioning Valve, but there doesn’t seem to be a definitive answer whether the valve can be safely removed or not. Some say get rid of it to improve braking performance. Others say it needs to be part of the braking system to reduce the effectiveness of the front calipers given the rear calipers are not very robust to say the least. Original skinny tires versus today’s wider tire also seem to play a role. I do find it interesting that the proportioning valve in the Pantera is part of the front brake circuit given proportioning valves are usually associated with the rear brakes.

I’ve had a Wilwood brake master cylinder on the shelf as backup to the stock master for a while, and I’m thinking about finally installing it as one of my winter projects. Since I have to make up a couple of brake lines anyway, why not eliminate the Proportioning and Shuttle Valves while I’m at it. My Pantera has stock calipers, and I’m currently running 315/35-17s tires in the rear, and 225/45-16s up front. Although, I may move back to 335/35-17s and 245/45-16s in the future. No track use for me.  I just enjoy driving the Pantera around to various area cruise-ins and cars shows with my car buddies during the Spring, Summer, and Fall months, weather permitting, of course.

So, is removing the Proportioning Valve the right and smart thing to do or not?  If I remove it,  I believe one of the threads I read suggested the addition of a manual proportioning valve…as part of the rear brake circuit??  I’m beginning to think it might be best to simply R&R the brake master and leave both the Proportioning and Shuttle Valves in place, but I appreciate any and all pros, cons, recommendations, etc.

Thanks for your time.

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