How to Repair the ABS Sensor on a '97 F-150

In 1997, Ford made a make-it-or-break-it move by completely redesigning its best-selling F-150 pickup. This was no simple styling change, but a complete scrapping of the old boxy body in favor of a rounded body that no truck buyer had seen before. Fortunately for Ford, the gamble paid off and the F-150s success continued on. The 1997 F-150s base trim level came standard with a 210-horsepower, 4.2-liter V-6 engine. Ford also fitted the base 1997 F-150 with a rear antilock brake system. When the rear ABS sensor fails, there is no way to tear it down and repair it. You must remove it and replace it with a new sensor, which is a simple task.

Instructions

Rear ABS Sensor Removal

1

Disable the trucks air suspension, if applicable, by flipping the switch on the passengers side kick panel to the Off position.

2

Lift the rear of the truck with a floor jack and slide jack stands under its frame rails.

3

Crawl under the rear of the vehicle until you have a clear view of the rear differential housing, the large globe-like part of the rear axle.

4

Find the rear ABS sensor on the front-most part of the differential housing, on the drivers side. Unplug the wiring harness from the sensor and clean around the sensor with a clean, lint-free cloth.

5

Remove the bolt securing the sensor, using a ratchet and socket. Pull the sensor from the differential with a slight twisting motion.

Rear ABS Sensor Installation

6

Apply a thin coat of new engine oil to the new sensors O-ring, using your finger. Guide the new sensor into the differential housing and hand-tighten the sensors retaining bolt.

7

Tighten the ABS sensors retaining bolt to between 25 and 30 foot-pounds, using a torque wrench and socket.

8

Plug the wiring harness into the ABS sensor. Raise the truck off the jack stands, using a floor jack, and remove the stands. Lower the F-150 to the ground. Turn the air suspension switch back to the On position.