Load-sensing proportioning valve

[K30_dump]

Hello all,

Thinking of running a load-sensing proportioning valve on my K30 dump project. Never had one on any of my trucks, but have acquired one from a junkyard C30 and am wondering what the benefits may be. Anyone here running one? Opinions?

I am slightly confused on how they work though. I assume they still require the main proportioning/combination valve. If thats the case, how will the valve make more pressure with more load? I guess what I'm asking is this. The load sensing valve cannot produce more pressure, correct? It can only lessen the pressure with lesser loads if I understand correctly. That in mind, the load sensing valve will not provide better braking performance with heavy loads, just make the brakes less touchy when empty?

Sorry if this seems simple, just trying to understand it . Opinions welcome from those who have run them...

Thanks,

Joe

[LONGHAIR]

You are correct, the valve can only reduce the pressure when the vehicle is empty.
I don't really know how this would work as a "retro-fitted" thing though? I would assume that, when factory equipped, the system would have been designed with higher pressure to the rear. This would allow the system to feel "normal" at the reduced pressure of the unloaded truck, then give you that "extra" when loaded.

[liftmeup]

Don't waste your time... I can't tell you how many I have thrown out from trucks that could not stop a load because these hung up. KISS

[K30_dump]

Originally Posted by LONGHAIR

I would assume that, when factory equipped, the system would have been designed with higher pressure to the rear

That is my assumption too, but the factory repair manual is very vague on the system layout. Only covers adjustment of the valve...

Originally Posted by liftmeup

Don't waste your time... I can't tell you how many I have thrown out from trucks that could not stop a load because these hung up

That's kinda what I was thinking too. The standard brakes on these (especially with the 3"X3.5" rears) work very well as it is, why mess with it? I'd rather have brakes that will put you through the windshield full time rather than wondering if the valve is doing it's job when loaded. Sounded like a neat idea, so I grabbed the valve and all brackets that day at the yard. Think I'll stick with what works though .

Thanks guys, can always count on this site for good advice

Joe