MOT question..rear brake valve regulator

[Jasikasisback]

Mine has split...MOT man said weld a plate on (garage did that last year but it fell off) or cover it up in duct tape for MOT...I realise this valve is only needed if the boot is empty to aid in braking...but mine is never empty..the valve itself does not leak...as far as I know this is the only potential issue for the MOT....some MK3's  don't even have this contraption...anyone know the exact rule...I've been told if fault not visible cannot fail for that

[itavaltalainen]

The valve is actually to increase braking force to rear wheels when you have stuff in the boot. Suspension goes down => valve opens up => more pressure to rear brakes. It was fitted to models without ABS to reduce braking when the back is light for stability reasons.

If it was me I'd fit a new one (60£) but knowing how much you payed for the car that would be a major investment

Where has it split (can't remember when you told me)?
Maybe undo the 4 bolts and fit a bit of sheet metal under and bend 90 degrees.

[Jasikasisback]

To be honest I don't think the valve can be removed without risking damaging the brake lines. I will have it removed in the future but just don't have the time to do it now..plus I don't have all the equipment necessary where I live. The boot when it is fuller keeps the valve functioning as the gap disappears and some pressure is exerted on the valve..so it works..albeit it will not work with minimal load...never really noticed a difference......most important if the MOT tester can't see it then can't tell if it is broken or not...which is the difference between a pass and a fail for me...

[Gti_Jamo]

Mine failed and some emergency breaking found me in a ditch facing the wrong direction as the back locked up prematurely. I woudn't skimp on your brakes.