In the 1988 Eddie Bauer version the proportioning valve is part of the brake's master cylinder. Follow the lead - I believe it's the same with the 1986'er...
have you tried the proportioning valve. sometimes dirt will get in there and clog the returns.
You may have a bad master cylinder, or proportioning valve,Does the vehicle have Antilock Brakes (ABS) ? Please let me know.Ben
The brake fluid reservoir is probably low on fluid. It has a float in it which senses low level of fluid and turns on the light on your dashboard. If that is all right the proportioning valve in the master cylinder needs to be centered.
its in the valve cover by the brake booster
The bleeder valve for the brakes on a 1997 Ford Ranger is located in the brake line where it meets the brake disc. The wheel will have to be removed to access the bleeder screw for drum brakes.
Check you brake fluid and the brake switch on the proportioning value. If the fluid level is ok then disconnect the switch to see if the light goes out. Also check the parking brake switch.
That is the Rear Brake Proportioning Valve (also referred to as a Rear brake pressure regulator). Depending on the suspension position, it changes how much pressure is sent to the rear brakes. Depending on the situation, it may increase pressure (usually during high rear load conditions) or decrease the pressure to prevent unpredictable handling.
at the top of each wheel cylinder
Open the hood. Look at the master cylinder. Just to the left of the brake fluid cap and about 2 inches below the cap you will find it. There are two brake lines leaving the left side of the master cylinder. The brake line that is closet to the fire wall that goes into the master cylinder goes into a large hexagonal fitting that is connected to the master cylinder. Inside of that large fitting is the brake proportioning valve. Do you find that your brake pedal goes to the ground when you are backing up? Do you find that the brake pedal goes all the way to the floor without warning while at a stop? These may be symptoms of a bad valve, especially if you have done all sorts of work on the brakes and still have problems. My understanding is that no parts are available. Re-builders of the valves give no warranty. Any other questions re: same issue? email bob6598604@earthlink.net
If the rear brakes are smoking, the parking brake cables may be frozen. The dash light may indicate that the parking brakes are released but the switch for the light is connected only to the parking brake lever NOT the actual parking brake shoe assembly. Another possible cause for rear brake lock-up is a malfunctioning rear brake proportioning valve. This valve controls hydraulic pressure to the rear brakes. Brake fluid absorbs moisture and should be changed on a regular basis. Vehicle inactivity and moisture in the brake fluid is a recipe for frozen or rusty brake components. Hope this helps you out!
on the top or back of the caliper