I have a slight problem. A few times a day when I first start the truck the abs light comes on, shuts off, then comes back on and stays on. Half the time if I drive it for a few miles shut it off again and restart it it will stay out. It usually comes on after it has sat for a few hours. At first i thought it was the sensor in the rear but wouldn't that make the speedo off? It isn't causing me any problems since the brakes still work but i don't like have something not working. The truck only has rabs.

 

Do you go muddin or offroad at all? That's a common occurence in those situations. I think mud funk up the sensor but it fixes itself after a bit of road driving..if not..I have no idea

 

No mudding, just everyday driving for a while now.

 

there is an abs sensor on the rear axle... its like $28 @ ford... that is what happened to mine. easy to change one bolt,one plug.

 

On your 97, the speedometer signal is taken from the transmission or transfer case. The 98~2000 Rangers use the ABS sensor for the speedometer.

 

That is good to know. I always thought the sensor sent the signal. Thanks for all your help. Now I can finally fix it. Is this just a dealer part?

 

I replaced the sensor, all is fine now. That was a pain, sensor broke off inside the rear. had to take the cover off and pop the rest of it out that way. Then i realized i had no RTV or oil. Had to wait till the next morning to finish.