Strange braking problem

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Mar 27, 2002 | 05:03 PM

Thrax2

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Strange braking problem

Hi,

I have a 95 Ranger, 4wheel ABS braking system. I am having a problem where my ABS braking system is engaging ('buzzing') and my front left wheel is pulling to the left. This is happening at lower speeds, around 5-15mph. Other than at those speeds, the braking system is fine.

After the ABS engages, it continues to buzz, and the brake pedal feels very stiff, and repeated attempts at braking causes the truck to veer to the left.

I changed the front brake pads about 8 months ago. I did not bleed the brakes. (I heard perhaps by not bleeding the brakes, I may have screwed up the ABS system)

What makes this even more bizarre, is after I changed the front brakes, the ABS and brakes worked fine after that, then recently I drove through a freshly tarred road. Ever since that day, I have been experiencing this problem.

Could there be tar on the sensors, would that affect it? Where should I begin to look? Thanks for any help on the matter... (Btw my brakes are disc on the front, drum on the back)

Mark
tmz@home.com

Mar 27, 2002 | 05:09 PM

Thrax2

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Strange braking problem

I should of added a few things...

My ABS light is not on, nor has it ever came on.

Brake fluid is fine, no leaks anywhere.

I inspected the electrical connections to the ABS system, they seem ok, but I did not inspect each connection and sensor at each wheel.

Thanks again if you have any info.

Mark

Apr 1, 2002 | 08:20 AM

red ranger

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Strange braking problem

another solution is to bleed the brake lines..there may be air bubbles somewhere..hope this would help

Apr 1, 2002 | 10:35 PM

DanielSizemore

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From: Hyden USA

Strange braking problem

I don't see why you should have to bleed the brakes after installing pads unless you took the bleeder screw loose to get the piston back. I would check that sensor on the wheel that is giving you trouble to make sure it is clean.

Apr 2, 2002 | 08:05 AM

Matt_W

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Joined: Jan 2002

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From: CT USA

Strange braking problem

with abs you should always loosen the bleeder screw when you push back the pistons in the caliper. otherwise you are forcing fluid back up into the system which can cause all sorts of problems with the many expensive parts to an abs system. Then of course you have to bleed the brakes but if you are careful to tighten the bleeder screws quickly after you push the piston back it shouldnt be very difficult to get any air out of the system. As for your problem i would check teh exciter ring (white ring with grooves in it, i think its on the back of your brake rotor) on the wheel that is causing you the problems and also make sure the magnetic pickup is clear from road debris. Possibly some tar could have gotten in the way of the magnetic pick up so it constantly thinks the brakes are locked on that wheel.
Hope this helps some

Aug 27, 2002 | 10:40 AM

auzzie_ranger

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Strange braking problem

I too am having the same problem with my 96 4x4 XLT and was wondering if these suggestions helped or if you were able to solve the problem. If you could tell me what solution you or anyone else has found I would be very appreciative

Thanks.

Aug 28, 2002 | 12:26 AM

TOUGHLover

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Joined: Aug 2002

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From: VA/USA

Strange braking problem

Mark - buddy, please reference the subject\topic in this forum "ABS again...", post #3. When it comes to brakes, NONE of us can take chances. Thanking you in advance - Glenn