Brake pressure regulator Options

[watsonrx13]

Eric's ad selling the 912 rear calipers started a discussion about the brake pressure regulator. I'd like to continue that discussion. Eric mentions that he wouldn't replace the regulator with a 'T' fitting. What I would like to know is how could you test the regulator off of the car? At $300 - $400 a piece from the dealer I would like to test mine before I purchase a new one.

Also, Eric mentioned that the front calipers shouldn't be used on the rear, even with the regulator. Is there any problem installing a set of rebuilt rears on and not installing the parking brake cables?

Any thoughts and suggestions are welcomed. BTW, I'd like to keep this discussion only for the 4-lug wheels.

Also, what are the thoughts about replacing the master cylinder with the larger one how does that effect the brake biasing?

-- Rob

[BRAVE_HELIOS]

So, I sent Renagade Hybrids an email concerning their instructions and the installation of a "T" in place of the brake regulator. My email reads:


Hello,

In your instructions for a 914/V8 setup (circa 1993), it states that the brake regulator should be replaced with a "T" fitting. Is this still valid? Have the instructions changed since 1993? Are new instructions available? The guys at 914World seem to think that the "T" fitting is a bad idea, even with the addition of a V8. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Tony

Well, I was somewhat surprised by the response. Not really a clear cut explanation as to why you would install a "T" in a stock brake system with a V8 engine. The response was:


Hi Tony,
There are a lot of ways to go about doing the brakes. Most of the time they are upgraded to 911 calipers and rotors.. For instance I have a car running carrera calipers front and rear, with the T, and it works great both on the street and track. The calipers for the Renegade big brake kit were sized with the T in mind, so they also work very well.

You'll find the stock 914 brakes not well suited for the type of acceleration the V8 is capable of. A few years ago I purchased a 914 V8 that still had stock brakes and I was constantly aware I didn't have enough brake to stop the car if the car was driven with any authority.

If you are concerned, then you can always put in an adjustable proportioning valve between the seats. Then you can dial in the combination of front and rear calipers to your liking. Just be aware that it needs to be set properly and shouldn't be constantly messed with.

Let me know if you have any other questions.


Any thoughts?