2003 Ranger, 4.0, 4WD, 4WABS

I have replaced every line and part past the ABS module. I have bled the system multiple times, and still have a spongy pedal. All I can think is that there is air in the ABS module. I have seen talk of using a scan tool to open the valves on the ABS unit to remove air which may be in there. What kind of scan tool is this, is it expensive, can you get a loaner from a parts store, etc? I have no experience using this tool. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

You would need a scan tool capable of reading ABS codes, as well as the capability to "turn things on"

A trick you can try is to find a dirt road, or gravel parking lot etc. A place where you can drive and slam on your brakes, that would easily allow the wheels to lock up.
Drive up and down said road/lot and slam on the brakes, you WANT the ABS system to kick on. After doing this a few times, try and bleed them again. The loss of traction while braking should activate the ABS pump, which should then force the air bubbles out of the module downstream.

If your truck is equipped with a rear diff wheel speed sensor (tone ring for ABS inside the differential housing) it's possible you could disconnect this sensor, put the truck up on stands, and then "drive" the truck in 4WD. Since the sensor in the back isn't detecting wheel rotation, once you hit the brakes ABS may activate. I can't say for sure if this particular method would work, as I have not tried it. But the traction control/ABS system on these trucks is not very complex

 

Thanks for the advice. I'll give it a try.