This is the pedal box of a certain Merlyn Mk20 Formula Ford:
I'm interested in the shiny object in the lower righthand corner. I believe it was intended to help drivers avoid locking up their brakes. Obviously this one is installed on the rear hydraulic circuit. A second one might have been installed on the front brake line, but the two mystery devices weren't connected.
1) What is the proper name for this device?
2) Who manufactured it?
3) Is it "period correct"?
4) How was it supposed to work?
5) How well did these devices actually work?
6) If this is already installed on the car, is there any harm in leaving it in place?
Thanks!