In order to fix the bushings on my 68 wagon I had to pull the brakes off. Of course the lines broke during disassembly. So now I'm replacing the lines back to the distribution block, where they're also breaking, and I suspect that I'm not going to be able to save the block, and it's NLA, so now I need to figure out what to do.
It looks like Ford used what they called a distribution block on their four wheel drum cars in the late 60's. Because my car has the huge 11 inch truck brakes all around it also got a truck distribution block. I can buy every piece of the brake system from the non power master cylinder to the wheel cylinders easily, except for this block. I'm not sure what to do.
I'll add pictures tomorrow.
Universal drum/drum one that is similarly configured as stock should be sub $50 on ebay
So if I read things rights these don't do anything other than alert you to the fact that half of your brake system is dead. They have a moveable piston that trips the brake switch plugged into it but the front and rear are split at the master and the proportioning of force is done through differential piston sizing between ends of the car. So if I don't care about the brake light I don't even need one?
Is that right?
Are you referring to the brake differential valve and switch or just a union? If it is the differential valve and switch, yes, it grounds the brake warning light when there is a pressure difference between the dual hydraulic systems (loss of pressure due to failed hose, line, m/cylinder, etc.)
Differential valve and switch would be another name for it. That's part of the issue, there are about five different names.
hhaase
Reader
10/11/16 9:50 a.m.
Could likely find a universal proportioning valve that would do the job.
Single master or dual?
Dual master. I cut the lines and pulled it out and it actually came apart with little drama. Well, compared to taking apart other rusted parts of the car. Now I just need to completely re-do all the brake lines. Which, let's be honest, needed to be done.
Thanks for your help, learning about this car is relaxing fun.
That appears to be a combination valve w/pressure differential and proportioning valve. The main body is brass and with liberal use of solvent and a socket placed on the fittings you will be able to remove them. If not, I googled 68 Ford brake differential valve and numerous sites listed them for sale.
I did get them all free, which was a relief. There are a ton of valves out there, but finding them listed for a manual drum/drum setup is harder.