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'97 Dakota ABS fault


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slade25
User

Aug 19, 2009, 9:12 PM

Post #1 of 3 (2645 views)
'97 Dakota ABS fault Sign In

Recently my 97 Dakota (6cyl,3.9L automatic) developed an ABS fault. While backing up suddenly my emerg brake came on and moments later the ABS fault light activated. All the easy and obvious checks (fuses, fluids, visual inspections) look good. My master cylinder was replaced a year ago and i've had the brake pads/shoes replaced within the last year. No evidence of any kind of fluid leak anywhere that I can notice. MY OBD II connector is not working unfortunately, so I cannot read any codes (which does not help anything).

Anyone have a suggestion(s) that I can check out? I know there are ABS sensors, might something have triggered one of them ?

also, if anyone knows how I can get my onboard diagnostic feature working. that would help. I get a link error on the OBD II when I try to run the scan. It gets the 12v power to it but will not rn through the scan....cannot communicate with onboard computer. The OBD II works on other vehicles. I cannot see a bent pin anywhere in the connector. Is there something I can check on/near the connector to see where that problem may lie?

btw, I did undo the neg battery terminal cable to see if I could clear the ABS fault. It did not, hard and fast it is still.


appreictae any assistance

Steve


Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
Hammer Time profile image

Aug 19, 2009, 9:19 PM

Post #2 of 3 (2639 views)
Re: '97 Dakota ABS fault Sign In

You want to tackle one problem at a time here or it will get real confusing. I suggest you start a second question for the whatever the second half of your question is about.

For your brake problem you need to go back to basics. ABS systems are engineered to release brakes, not apply them so you have some type of mechanical problem in the brakes that may have subsequently damaged one of the ABS sensors and triggered the light. Take the wheels and drums off and see what you find but your problem may be inside the differential and not have anything to do with the brakes at all. that's where the rear sensor is and it may have made contact with some gears in there.



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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.



Loren Champlain Sr
Veteran / Moderator
Loren Champlain Sr profile image

Aug 20, 2009, 9:28 AM

Post #3 of 3 (2632 views)
Re: '97 Dakota ABS fault Sign In

slade; >> While backing up suddenly my emerg brake came on << Were the brakes actually applied, or was it just the brake warning lamp that illuminated? As HT said, the ABS will not apply the brakes. A thorough visual inspection is warranted. Could be moisture (gear oil or brake fluid) on the rear brakes which can cause a 'lock up'. Also, check the fluid in the master cylinder for petroleum contamination. Petroleum products (pretty much anything other than brake fluid) will cause the rubber parts in the system to swell and can cause the problem you are experiencing. Brake fluid is water soluble. Take a sample of the brake fluid, put it in a glass jar, and add water. It should mix, nicely. If there is any petroleum product, it will seperate from the water. (You can use your wife's turkey baster and one of her favorite glasses for this test. (I wouldn't advise it, but you can do it if you are brave) (and don't mind sleeping on the couch).
Loren
SW Washington






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