Interesting ABS Problem

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May 7, 2009 | 05:38 PM

pbsterling

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Interesting ABS Problem

In the last couple of days I have been experiencing a problem with my ABS. When slow down and turn, the ABS engages while braking. It does not do it while braking on a straight away. I'm guessing a Front ABS sensor problem or wiring leading to it. Any suggestions?

1998 F-150 4.6 4x2

Thanks in advance

pbsterling

May 7, 2009 | 08:29 PM

chaser1602

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From: sanford

You mean the light comes on?

May 8, 2009 | 08:44 AM

pbsterling

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No the ABS light is off but the system engages - pulsating brake pedal - every time I apply the brakes while cornering.

May 12, 2009 | 11:02 PM

bada$$f150

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mine did the same thing but the light came on, i just took the abs fuse (fuse #25 under dash) out and it quit. A few days later i put the fuse back in and it was still ok. Maybe this will work for you.

Nov 17, 2009 | 11:43 AM

pbsterling

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I finally replaced the front ABS wheel sensors. Problem gone.

Another question - Is there an easy way to determine if my truck has 4 wheel ABS or just 2 wheel ABS?

Nov 17, 2009 | 06:25 PM

DJPRacer58

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From: Sparta NJ

if u have sensors on the front u got 4 wheel abs. 2 wheel abs is just the sensor in the rear pumpkin

Nov 25, 2009 | 10:19 AM

paul64

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How do you know which front ABS sensor it is.
I went to the ford dealer here in canada and they are $250 each side.
The whole hub with the sensor is $330.
What a crime eh! (LOL)
I have the same problem. No ABS light comes on but it activates at 10MPH

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Nov 25, 2009 | 08:07 PM

eallanboggs

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How does ABS get activated? When vehicle speed excedes wheel speed(skidding) ABS is activated to get the wheels spinning at the same speed the vehicle is moving. The wheel sensors are the key to the whole operation. You can monitor the sensors with a low current clamp on probe.

Nov 25, 2009 | 11:16 PM

#10

steve(ill)

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the rear sensor is on top of the differential. it points at a big thin gear bolted to the ring gear. it counts teeth as the gear turns and computer compares speed to the front wheels.

Nov 26, 2009 | 07:24 AM

#11

paul64

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I already changed the rear sensor and that did not fix it. $28
It has to be 1 of the 2 front sensors but I am not able to determine which one. $230 each
The dealer wants $100 just to diagnose it and tell me which one it is.
I just pulled the fuse as well.

Nov 26, 2009 | 12:08 PM

#12

eallanboggs

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Use a low current clamp on amprobe connected to your DVOM. You spin the wheel with probe clamped onto the sense line. You should see an output proportional to the speed the wheel is spinning. This will tell you which sensor needs to be replaced.