ABS Issue Driver side front locking
Thread Starter
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Trailering
Joined: Jul 2024
Posts: 19
Likes: 1
From: North Smithfield RI 02896
ABS Issue Driver side front locking
Greetings everyone - newbie here - I'm hoping someone recognizes this issue:
Truck: 06 Ranger 4x4 / 4L V6 4.0
When applying the brakes suddenly the driver side front wheel sometimes locks (skids).
So far I've replaced the following:
Both Front Calipers, pads, and checked the rotors
Driver side brake line going to the caliper - the issue persists.
My next step was to check the wheel speed sensors - but the wheel bearings were replaces a couple years back which included new sensors so I'm thinking that is not the issue.
I was also going to flush the rear brakes to insure fluid is getting to them just for good measure.
All that said I'm thinking it's an issue with the ABS pump - is it worth it to take it apart and clean it?
If I have to replace the ABS pump whom do you all get an item like that from?
Also I see that replacing the pump requires the new one to be re-programmed - any idea what a Ford dealer gets to do that (if they will even do it)
I don't get any warning lights - just the driver side wheel skidding when braking suddenly.
Any help will be most welcome.
Thanks in Advance
Jan
Truck: 06 Ranger 4x4 / 4L V6 4.0
When applying the brakes suddenly the driver side front wheel sometimes locks (skids).
So far I've replaced the following:
Both Front Calipers, pads, and checked the rotors
Driver side brake line going to the caliper - the issue persists.
My next step was to check the wheel speed sensors - but the wheel bearings were replaces a couple years back which included new sensors so I'm thinking that is not the issue.
I was also going to flush the rear brakes to insure fluid is getting to them just for good measure.
All that said I'm thinking it's an issue with the ABS pump - is it worth it to take it apart and clean it?
If I have to replace the ABS pump whom do you all get an item like that from?
Also I see that replacing the pump requires the new one to be re-programmed - any idea what a Ford dealer gets to do that (if they will even do it)
I don't get any warning lights - just the driver side wheel skidding when braking suddenly.
Any help will be most welcome.
Thanks in Advance
Jan
Moderator
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 13,851
Likes: 111
From: SW Va
Welcome to FTE.
No replies yet so will see if I can get things started. You've been busy on this puppy. Were all those parts bad? If not hold off tossing any more parts at the problem until you scan for trouble code clues & post All code Numbers as they can help focus a trouble shoot.
You'll need a scan-tool to access the ABS & GEM controllers for any pending or set code clues. If you don't have a scan-tool consider borrowing or coming by the inexpensive ELM scan-tool & running FORScan diagnostic freeware on your viewing device of choice as discussed here as this inexpensive but powerful combo can access all available vehicle computer / controllers & then post All pending or set code clue Numbers. Low Cost ELM Scantool - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums (ford-trucks.com)
Some initial thoughts for consideration, let us know what you find.
No replies yet so will see if I can get things started. You've been busy on this puppy. Were all those parts bad? If not hold off tossing any more parts at the problem until you scan for trouble code clues & post All code Numbers as they can help focus a trouble shoot.
You'll need a scan-tool to access the ABS & GEM controllers for any pending or set code clues. If you don't have a scan-tool consider borrowing or coming by the inexpensive ELM scan-tool & running FORScan diagnostic freeware on your viewing device of choice as discussed here as this inexpensive but powerful combo can access all available vehicle computer / controllers & then post All pending or set code clue Numbers. Low Cost ELM Scantool - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums (ford-trucks.com)
Some initial thoughts for consideration, let us know what you find.
Thread Starter
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Trailering
Joined: Jul 2024
Posts: 19
Likes: 1
From: North Smithfield RI 02896
Thanks for the info on the ELM Scan tool - Do you know if this tool is capable of exercising the ABS unit ? I read in other places to only get one that can perform this but the ones I've seen so far are expensive.
As far as the parts replaced so far, the truck is 18 yr old now and unfortunately always been parked on grass so things are rather rusty. The new (rebuilt) calipers from Autozone came coated with what looks like powder coat - soooo I felt it was worth the swap out.
After looking at a bunch of U-T videos it's looking like the pump hydraulic unit is the culprit - so far I've not found a source of a new or re-built one. It appears Ford only sells the entire unit which is big $$$. I'm still checking other sources but so far no luck.
I do plan on getting a scan too it's just a matter of finding one that can exercise ABS for a reasonable price.
Thanks so much for your input.
Jan
As far as the parts replaced so far, the truck is 18 yr old now and unfortunately always been parked on grass so things are rather rusty. The new (rebuilt) calipers from Autozone came coated with what looks like powder coat - soooo I felt it was worth the swap out.
After looking at a bunch of U-T videos it's looking like the pump hydraulic unit is the culprit - so far I've not found a source of a new or re-built one. It appears Ford only sells the entire unit which is big $$$. I'm still checking other sources but so far no luck.
I do plan on getting a scan too it's just a matter of finding one that can exercise ABS for a reasonable price.
Thanks so much for your input.
Jan
Moderator
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 13,851
Likes: 111
From: SW Va
Hold on, don't toss another part at the problem, you haven't posted any info, or trouble codes that would cause the ABS motor or valving to be suspect.
Come by the ELM you want, scan the vehicle for trouble codes, post the code Numbers here & let the codes be your trouble shooting guide
Call or TXT ELM Amazon vendor BAFX if their ELM's are bi-directional with bi-directional enhanced FORScan diagnostic software, if so give BAFX serious purchase consideration as they have a reputation of standing by their products to work for FTE & TCCA forum members. FORScan has a upgraded version for not to many $$$ that can exercise all sorts of things including the ABS sys.
Toggle around FORScan & you'll find some more recommendations for a ELM they know will run their software too.
Did this wheel locking problem come about slowly over time, or suddenly after some event?
Come by the ELM you want, scan the vehicle for trouble codes, post the code Numbers here & let the codes be your trouble shooting guide
Call or TXT ELM Amazon vendor BAFX if their ELM's are bi-directional with bi-directional enhanced FORScan diagnostic software, if so give BAFX serious purchase consideration as they have a reputation of standing by their products to work for FTE & TCCA forum members. FORScan has a upgraded version for not to many $$$ that can exercise all sorts of things including the ABS sys.
Toggle around FORScan & you'll find some more recommendations for a ELM they know will run their software too.
Did this wheel locking problem come about slowly over time, or suddenly after some event?
Thread Starter
|
Trailering
Joined: Jul 2024
Posts: 19
Likes: 1
From: North Smithfield RI 02896
Hold on, don't toss another part at the problem, you haven't posted any info, or trouble codes that would cause the ABS motor or valving to be suspect.
Come by the ELM you want, scan the vehicle for trouble codes, post the code Numbers here & let the codes be your trouble shooting guide
Call or TXT ELM Amazon vendor BAFX if their ELM's are bi-directional with bi-directional enhanced FORScan diagnostic software, if so give BAFX serious purchase consideration as they have a reputation of standing by their products to work for FTE & TCCA forum members. FORScan has a upgraded version for not to many $$$ that can exercise all sorts of things including the ABS sys.
Toggle around FORScan & you'll find some more recommendations for a ELM they know will run their software too.
Did this wheel locking problem come about slowly over time, or suddenly after some event?
Come by the ELM you want, scan the vehicle for trouble codes, post the code Numbers here & let the codes be your trouble shooting guide
Call or TXT ELM Amazon vendor BAFX if their ELM's are bi-directional with bi-directional enhanced FORScan diagnostic software, if so give BAFX serious purchase consideration as they have a reputation of standing by their products to work for FTE & TCCA forum members. FORScan has a upgraded version for not to many $$$ that can exercise all sorts of things including the ABS sys.
Toggle around FORScan & you'll find some more recommendations for a ELM they know will run their software too.
Did this wheel locking problem come about slowly over time, or suddenly after some event?
I'll be getting a scan tool in the very near future.
Thanks again for the input.
Jan
Moderator
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 13,851
Likes: 111
From: SW Va
Ok more good feedback, so let's think about this some more. Don't take any of the new parts off the suspect list as I've seen plenty of bad new parts right out of the box.
SO until you get the ELM, have a close look at both brake hoses to both brake calipers for signs of swelling when your helper applies the brakes.
Also inspect the coated brake disks teeth & the ABS sensor for any kind of coating or other deposits like coating flakes, mud or chipped or fouled teeth, or sensor, or looseness of sensor or caliper fit or the sensor electrical connector pin / socket electrical connection fit.
Check both front wheels bearing play, too much play can cause wheel wobble & mess with what the ABS sensor thinks is happening,
Lastly maybe consider burping both calipers in case there is a little air remaining close to the fitting,
Before opening the fitting & during the bleed if you see some air, tap the caliper good with a Wooden hammer handle or the like but not with metal to get any stubborn air bubble to head toward the bleed valve.
More thoughts for consideration, keep us posted on your findings.
SO until you get the ELM, have a close look at both brake hoses to both brake calipers for signs of swelling when your helper applies the brakes.
Also inspect the coated brake disks teeth & the ABS sensor for any kind of coating or other deposits like coating flakes, mud or chipped or fouled teeth, or sensor, or looseness of sensor or caliper fit or the sensor electrical connector pin / socket electrical connection fit.
Check both front wheels bearing play, too much play can cause wheel wobble & mess with what the ABS sensor thinks is happening,
Lastly maybe consider burping both calipers in case there is a little air remaining close to the fitting,
Before opening the fitting & during the bleed if you see some air, tap the caliper good with a Wooden hammer handle or the like but not with metal to get any stubborn air bubble to head toward the bleed valve.
More thoughts for consideration, keep us posted on your findings.
Thread Starter
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Trailering
Joined: Jul 2024
Posts: 19
Likes: 1
From: North Smithfield RI 02896
Greetings, I've ordered the ELM tool you suggested - I should have it tomorrow. It seems very in-expensive (with less than stellar reviews) and on Amazon they never mention a thing about it being useful for ABS ? I'm hoping the ForScan software is the key - we'll see - worst case it's Amazon returnable.
Other: In checking out the rear brakes I found a problem, the driver side rear wheel cylinder has been apparently leaking ever so slightly for what looks like a time. So the backing plate and surfaces have been cleaned and a new wheel cylinder installed (and blead). Obviously this didn't change the main issue but at least puts the brakes in a more reliable condition.
Also as stated earlier both front calipers have been replace with Autozone refurbs and blead - being solo I use a suction bleed system which seems to work well. The brake hose going to the driver side caliper has been replaced. The next step(s) were to inspect (clean) the wheel speed sensors - these were replaced a few years ago when the wheel bearing assemblies were replaced - but... I'm going to check them anyway. As far as 'play' in the front wheel bearings - there is none - both are tight.
Again thanks for the input, I really appreciate your time on this.
Jan
Other: In checking out the rear brakes I found a problem, the driver side rear wheel cylinder has been apparently leaking ever so slightly for what looks like a time. So the backing plate and surfaces have been cleaned and a new wheel cylinder installed (and blead). Obviously this didn't change the main issue but at least puts the brakes in a more reliable condition.
Also as stated earlier both front calipers have been replace with Autozone refurbs and blead - being solo I use a suction bleed system which seems to work well. The brake hose going to the driver side caliper has been replaced. The next step(s) were to inspect (clean) the wheel speed sensors - these were replaced a few years ago when the wheel bearing assemblies were replaced - but... I'm going to check them anyway. As far as 'play' in the front wheel bearings - there is none - both are tight.
Again thanks for the input, I really appreciate your time on this.
Jan
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Moderator
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 13,851
Likes: 111
From: SW Va
The ELM / FORScan combo freeware can read / monitor both front and rear ABS speed sensors when it acts out so you can see whats happening & if its storing a Pending code it won't turn on a light until its happened some Ford programmed specified number of times, so knowing if Pending codes are set sometimes helps focus a trouble-shoot, so be sure to post Any trouble code Numbers found.
If you come to believe you need to flush the ABS valving system, the enhanced version of FORScan can do that but we have to pay a few bucks to download it. So far I've not needed any more than the freeware to trouble-shoot my 99 Ranger ABS woes as mentioned in the ELM thread.
When you clean the front speed sensors be sure to inspect the rotor vanes coating, as if its flaking or otherwise shedding & collecting on the speed sensors or rotor vanes it, or other debris can cause mischief. Inspect the speed sensors wiring & pin / socket electrical connections for bent pins, spread sockets loose fit or debris inside, or a pinch or cut mark along the speed sensors wiring run.
When this suddenly began, since its 4X4 were you off roading, driving through water, hit a chuck hole, over rough bumpy road, making a long high speed stop, ect. ?
If you come to believe you need to flush the ABS valving system, the enhanced version of FORScan can do that but we have to pay a few bucks to download it. So far I've not needed any more than the freeware to trouble-shoot my 99 Ranger ABS woes as mentioned in the ELM thread.
When you clean the front speed sensors be sure to inspect the rotor vanes coating, as if its flaking or otherwise shedding & collecting on the speed sensors or rotor vanes it, or other debris can cause mischief. Inspect the speed sensors wiring & pin / socket electrical connections for bent pins, spread sockets loose fit or debris inside, or a pinch or cut mark along the speed sensors wiring run.
When this suddenly began, since its 4X4 were you off roading, driving through water, hit a chuck hole, over rough bumpy road, making a long high speed stop, ect. ?
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Thread Starter
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Trailering
Joined: Jul 2024
Posts: 19
Likes: 1
From: North Smithfield RI 02896
Greetings
In the past month or so we (me and the wife) have been doing a lot of highway driving about 80 miles/day. This started suddenly a couple weeks ago. I should have the ELM tool later today - we'll see. Meantime today I'll be checking all the wiring connections and checking the front wheel sensors. I don't see any wheel sensors on the rear wheels. Is there a way to tell if this is front-wheel only ABS? I've heard it mentioned that some were fitted that way.
Do you know how much the enhanced ForScan version costs? I know I can get a version of another tool that does the ABS bleed function for $ 89. without needing any additional updates.
Today I'm hoping to get the ELM and get the free version of ForScan installed and go from there.
Again - thanks for your time on this it is MUCH appreciated.
Jan
In the past month or so we (me and the wife) have been doing a lot of highway driving about 80 miles/day. This started suddenly a couple weeks ago. I should have the ELM tool later today - we'll see. Meantime today I'll be checking all the wiring connections and checking the front wheel sensors. I don't see any wheel sensors on the rear wheels. Is there a way to tell if this is front-wheel only ABS? I've heard it mentioned that some were fitted that way.
Do you know how much the enhanced ForScan version costs? I know I can get a version of another tool that does the ABS bleed function for $ 89. without needing any additional updates.
Today I'm hoping to get the ELM and get the free version of ForScan installed and go from there.
Again - thanks for your time on this it is MUCH appreciated.
Jan
Moderator
Joined: Jan 2004
Posts: 13,851
Likes: 111
From: SW Va
Most 4x4 were 4 wheel ABS. Don't believe there were any made with front only ABS. Older low end trucks were Rear only ABS. The rear speed sensor is located in the top front of the rear differential casting & is sensing the differential ring gear that drives both rear wheels,
I don't know what the enhanced FORScan cost is, but you can look it up on their website with one of the links posted in the ELM thread.
I don't know what the enhanced FORScan cost is, but you can look it up on their website with one of the links posted in the ELM thread.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2023
Posts: 1,379
Likes: 383
From: WA
That sounds like a good diagnostic method to distinguish between the ABS system and something else.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 3,779
Likes: 872
From: Foothills of NC
It worked.......Sometimes you do what you have to, and that time was pretty much a have to.
Thread Starter
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Trailering
Joined: Jul 2024
Posts: 19
Likes: 1
From: North Smithfield RI 02896
@ yardbird
So funny that you mention pulling the fuse to ABS - I was going to try that to at least be able to drive the truck, don't really need ABS til winter anyway. Just curious by pulling the fuse will that still pass state inspection? In RI where I live ABS - IS - one of the items on the printout as being checked?
Anyway - I got the ELM scan tool today but won't get a chance to hook it up and play with it for a day or so.
Thanks so much for the input.
I'll be sure to post my steps in solving this. On U-Tube a fellow owner of a Ranger had this exact problem and fixed it by getting a used ABS module from E-Bay and 'just' replacing the valve mechanism - not the electronics which require re-programming.
Again - stay tuned...
Jan
So funny that you mention pulling the fuse to ABS - I was going to try that to at least be able to drive the truck, don't really need ABS til winter anyway. Just curious by pulling the fuse will that still pass state inspection? In RI where I live ABS - IS - one of the items on the printout as being checked?
Anyway - I got the ELM scan tool today but won't get a chance to hook it up and play with it for a day or so.
Thanks so much for the input.
I'll be sure to post my steps in solving this. On U-Tube a fellow owner of a Ranger had this exact problem and fixed it by getting a used ABS module from E-Bay and 'just' replacing the valve mechanism - not the electronics which require re-programming.
Again - stay tuned...
Jan
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Jun 2023
Posts: 1,379
Likes: 383
From: WA
You could do it just one time to see if the problem is in the ABS system. If it's a mechanical problem not related to ABS pulling the fuse won't fix it. Then you can stop thinking about ABS and look for the real cause.