AboutKevin Pilotte Expertise I can answer many technical questions relating to AMC vehicles prior to 1979. I also have experience with Rambler & Nash vehicles.
Experience I am a former AMC technician, service writer and service manager. I have worked in AMC dealers in Illinois in the 70's. After college, I was a Field Service Rep for American Motors Sales Corporation, working out of the Chicago Zone office. I traveled to AMC dealers assisting in the diagnosis and repair of AMC vehicles. I was also the Area Training Manager for DeLorean Motor Company. I have 10+ years as an Automotive Instructor. I have modified and restored
numerous AMC vehicles. I have been working on AMC vehicles for over 30 years.
Organizations I have been an ASE Certified Master Technician since 1975. This includes L1. I am also currently a Toyota Certified Master Diagnostic Technician.
Publications I have articles in "American Motoring", the official publication of the American Motors Owners Association. They are the largest AMC club in the world.
Expert: Kevin Pilotte Date: 2/5/2008 Subject: Gremlin brake problem
Question I have a 1972 Gremlin that I upgraded to front disc brakes and V-8 when I swapped out the front cross member from a 1974 with disc brakes. I changed out the master cylinder to one for front disc w/no power and rear drum. It all seemed fine until about 3 months of driving it and recently the front calipers were starting to bind seemed to be building up and holding pressure. I simply opened the bleed vavle and all was fine. When It did it a second time I replaced the calipers. Now it has once again done it with just one of my front disc brakes. Is there a reason that it is holding the pressure ? does the proporting/differential valve restrict flow or cause it to maintain pressure ? Just trying to figure out how to get the gremlins out of my gremlin !! I appreciate the help. Thanks, Gordon
Answer The disc brake set up should have a combination valve. It does three things:
1) Proportioning valve splits the pressures between the front & rear.
2) Pressure differential valve and switch activates the warning light in case of fluid loss.
3) Metering valve reduces front brake pressure until rear brake pressure builds up enough to overcome the brake shoe return springs.
Try replacing the combination valve. Make sure it is one for your donor vehicle with disc brakes. Also make sure your master cylinder is for disc brakes.
