royta

I have a 1997 4WD CC. It has the factory overload springs. It also has a brake valve in line with the rear brake lines. This valve is located on the inside of the left frame rail, just above the bump stop. When weight is added to the truck and the rear end squats, linkage from the rear axle to the brake valve causes the valve to open up, and I assume open the port that allow brake fluid to reach the rear brake cylinders.

I'm assuming that not all of our trucks have this item, as I was not able to find it in my 1997 factory service manual. The arm on this valve is getting in the way of the Ride Rite's, P/N 2220, that I need to install. See this THREAD. I would like to remove the valve.

There is short metal brake line between the long line that goes down the left frame rail and the valve. Then there is a rubber brake line between the T on the axle and the valve. I'm assuming there is a rubber brake line that goes between the T and the long line that goes down the frame. Does anybody know the part number?

Thanks.

Roy

royta

Is everybody on vacation or something? It would sure be nice to know if the valve is an option, or only comes with the camper springs package, or something. I could sure use some help here. Thanks.

Racer9

Not sure if I'm any help, but on mine, the valve was already removed when I got it. I have just the long line on the frame, which connects to the rubber line that goes to the axle Tee fitting. It's all standard brake line fittings.
I also upgraded to the GM 1 ton wheel cylinders.

Greguw

I have seen that as a after market install and on the gm's also ... But never on a dodge .
Air lift makes a similar device for there load leave system ...

Greg

blueshakker

i had to replace the valve a few months ago. after getting the run around with dodge weither or not i needed it on, they finally said i could go without it. supposed to give u better rear brakes by deleting it. which are only 10% of braking power in the rear anyway.

jabber

The only thing you will notice if removed is that the rears my lock up sooner on wet or ice conditions.

itrattles

I have a 98 3/4 ton without the helper springs,,I heard that they only put the rear proportion valves on for a few years. My started to leak brake fluid and i removed it,,its been off for a few years with no noticable problems,my opion without the valve it should have more rear brakeing power without a load.Hope this helps.

V Baker

Look here. http://dodgeram.info/tsb/1998/05-04-98.htm

royta

Thanks for the link. That's a big help.

That whole rear height sensing valve is the stupidest thing I've ever heard of. When my truck was completely empty and had the stock bed on it, it still weighed close to 6600 pounds. 6600 pounds is exactly 75% of the 8800# GVW. Basically, it shouldn't have been installed in the first place. Nice going Dodge!!

royta

Does anybody have the specs for that hose? They are on back order from the local dealerships supplier right now. I'd like to just pick one up from the local NAPA, but want to make sure I'm getting the right length and fitting sizes before I crack open the brake system.

royta

I finally bought the brake hose yesterday and installed it today. The new part number is 52009575AE and lists for $40.56. I was able to get it for $28.20, so I hope everybody else can get the same price.

It seems as if I'm getting better braking now. Of course, it could be just my imagination.

I also installed the ride-rites, but will comment on that in my other thread.