The “factory installed” pressure regulator valve of an automotive transmission is replaced by a pressure regulator valve having two separate valve components conjointly movable together in a bore. A protrusion or protuberance extending from the center of one end of one of the valve components defines a fulcrum which abuts against an adjacent end of the other valve component as the two valve components move conjointly and in direct contact with each other within the bore during operation of the pressure regulator valve. Preferably, an opening is provided in a land in one of the valve components to vent hydraulic fluid (transmission oil) to prevent a pressure build-up in the bore which might separate the two valve components from each other during reciprocating movement of the valve components in the bore.