Help!   Here's the problem: 1995 4.0 Explorer 4x4 XLT. Automatic trans. 69,000 miles. I finally replaced the original, normally worn, front brake pads only (myself), not the rotors (no time), nor rear pads/rotors. Never had any problems prior to or since this brake job. That was about two months ago. For the last month now, as the vehicle comes to a complete stop (from any speed), within the last 1-3 miles per hour (wheels still rolling slowly..ie not quite fully stopped), the ABS brake pump activates!  Dry or wet pavement makes no difference. It seems to be "sensing" a lockup condition and activates the system.  While the braking effectiveness remains unchanged (in other words, the vehicle comes to a stop normally every time), it is quite annoying - unsettling is a better term! I'm about ready to pull the fuse to disable the ABS system. Does anyone have any ideas as to what is going on? Will replacing the obviously worn original front rotors cure this, or is there some adjustment/calibration necessary to the ABS sensors at the wheels?  This problem has gradually come unto the scene. Initially would occur intermittently, now everytime I come to a stop. Until now, the truck has performed flawlessly from the day I bought it new almost ten years ago.    Jump right in, folks. I'm open to any of your thoughts on this problem.   George      

George,   I have a 1997 for explores XLT, with 135,000 KM ( about 85,000 m) which has exactly the same problem. I went to the dealer 2 years ago to get this checked.  The problem was diagnosed as a speed sensor on the right front wheel which indicates the wrong speed under 2 MPH, but is ok above that speed (I actually whitnessed the reading on the instrument as we went for the test drive). The cure is to change both front sensor (these come in sets, as they are calibrated in pairs).  Unfortunately, on the 1997 ford, the sensor is part of the front inner wheel bearings, and the whole bearing has to be changed, a $500+ job. I did disconnect the sensors at one point (so I become like any pre ABS car!), and there is no more pump activating. I do not think that there is any relation between the brake calipers and disk, and the problem you are experiencing with the ABS.   In my case, another problem also occured.  The 4x4 comes on when I back up, after having been parked for a while, and this is very annoying when you are on asphalt! I have often suspected that the cause was the ABS sensors, which would indicate that one wheel is slipping. However, the dealer tells me that the two systems are not tied together. I was wondering if you have experienced this problem also?   Roger.

Roger,   Regarding the faulty ABS sensors, it seems that the number one cause for false readings is dirt/crud buildup on the magnetic pickups! A simple cleaning with blasts of compressed air and brake cleaner may solve the problem. Or a sensor has bit the dust. At $500+, I think I'll try the cleaning route first and see what happens.   With regard to your 4X4 problem, I've not experienced that.....yet.   I'll keep you posted on my ABS cleaning efforts.   George

There are several things to do here. As noted by the fellow below, clean the sensors and the back side of the rotars. Check that none of the fins are spread or have dirt/debris between the fins. These fins just activate the sensor as it goes by. If the sensor isn't activated every so many mili-seconds, the abs motor runs. Here is something else to do after you clean them. Unplug the battery and and wait a few minutes the reattach. Start the vehicle and let it idle for the recomended time. (I think about 5 minutes will do. Then drive forward slowly and touch the brakes but don't stop, even hit the gas a little to keep it rolling. They recomended that you driv the vehicle at road speeds to set the computer for the o2 sensors and the mass air flow.   Chris Robertson  

"George N.