So a Freind of mine just bout a 1996 Ranger V-6 ABS with only 50,000 miles on it. When you press on the brake pedal at slow speeds (5-10mph) the front wheels want to lock up. The stopping starts at the very top of the brake pedal push. At high way speeds you just barely touch the brakes and they start to stop.

The ABS light is not on. It comes on during start up and then goes out like normal. I looked at the front pads and rotor. No gouges in the routers, and the pads have plenty of life left to them. It does not make any odd noises when you press on the brakes, it does not pull to one side or the other, straight as an arrow. Vacume seems good, fluid is up to specs.

What could be causing this? and How do I fix it myself? Thank you for your input.

 

Likely one of the vehicle speed sensors. Is it 4x4?

 

It is two wheel drive. Would a engine light come on if it was a speed sensor or would it store a code for it?

 

I like pgw85706's idea to check the front wheel speed sensors.
Look for debris on them or the rotor, or for chips, cracks or missing reluctor vanes.

If all that checks out ok, look in the Tech Info thread atop this forum & scroll down to the brake section, to see how to pull any ABS system trouble codes, then post All ofthe code numbers found.

 

Is there significant drag on the front wheels when the front end is lifted up off the ground? If the pistons or calipers are not fully releasing, you get "quick acting" brakes.

 

I like that idea on the quick brakes michigan66. Sure enough, sticking caliper pistons, or glide pins could cause it

 

I didn't really spin the wheel when it was off the ground. Moving I do not feel it slowing down from drag. No noise either. It does not pull to left or right.

After I check out the sensor I will pull the pads out and clean the brake caliper piston.

Thanks for the suggestions.