Breaks not engaging after new parts instalation

1973 CHEVROLET NOVA
200,000 MILES
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NOVAJOE
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  • 2 POSTS
I just installed a new proportion valve and calipers to stop my disk breaks from locking up, only now they don't engage or only slightly engage. How do I fix that?
Jun 10, 2012 at 11:41 PM
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CARADIODOC
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 34,321 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
How is the brake pedal, high and firm or low and mushy? By locking up, do you mean skidding the tires under light pedal application or the brakes would start to apply themselves while driving?
Jun 11, 2012 at 12:20 AM
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NOVAJOE
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Pedal is low and mushy. And once the pedal was pressed, the one would not disengage.
Jun 11, 2012 at 8:35 AM
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CARADIODOC
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 34,321 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Given the multiple symptoms and series of events, is it possible the brake fluid has been contaminated with a petroleum product? Check the rubber bladder seal under the reservoir cap to see if it's blown up and mushy. If it is, everything with rubber parts that contact the fluid must be replaced and the steel lines must be flushed and dried.
Jun 11, 2012 at 2:29 PM
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