Classic/Antique Car Repair: Break light, differential valve, dash light


Question
QUESTION: Hey my break warning light in my 85 El Camino wont turn off, Im not losing fluid, & i have a good peddle. Any Ideas?


ANSWER: The first thing that I look for is an emergency brake that is not returning all the way. Try to lift the e brake pedal with your toe. If the light goes out, you have your problem. If that is not the problem let me know and we will go from there with the next step.
Brad

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hey Brad thanks for geting back at me so fast, i did try me e brake.
i also bleed the lines,and changed my pads abs shoes? im thinking maybe the master cylinder?

Answer
Follow the fluid lines from the master cylinder. they should enter a brass block that also has an electrical connection. This is the proportioning valve or pressure differential valve and acts as a switch to turn on the dash light should pressure fall in one end of the system. To see if this is what is turning the light on disconnect the wire. If the light goes out then the switch needs to be recentered. Recentering this valve involves someone holding pressure on the brake pedal and then cracking front and or rear bleeder scews until the valve is centered. This can be a frustrating job.
Brad