Remove ABS sensor bracket

[markusm]

I have a '92 Explorer 4WD and want to remove the front left spindle to remove the short axle shaft to replace the u-joint. My problem is: the tiny 6mm bolt that holds the ABS sensor holder is rounded off and is so buried I can't figure how to remove it. I've tried hammering on smaller sockets but no luck. Also, is the ABS sensor attached to the cast-iron bracket or does it simply protrude through it?

 

[IAmTodd]

The sensor just passes through the block. It might be corroded on though. I ended up breaking one of the blocks and was able to drill out the head of the other side. Drilling would be the best bet.

I chose not to reinstall them.

 

[markusm]

So if I choose to disconnect or inadvertantly destroy that one sensor, my brakes will still operate like standard brakes?

 

[IAmTodd]

Yes. Your ABS light will light up on the dash. I find it surprising that you have 4WABS in a '92 though.

 

[DirtJunky]

Just gotta be more careful on slamming your brakes. My passenger side came straight out with no problem. But driver side was a pain the the ass.

 

[IAmTodd]

Just gotta be more careful on slamming your brakes. My passenger side came straight out with no problem. But driver side was a pain the the ass.

I guess I should have added that. Your ABS will be disabled but normal braking will still continue. Right up to the point where the wheels lock up.

 

[DirtJunky]

Yea anti locking brake system is gone so nothing stops you from locking up. (Gotten sideways from locking up couple time)

 

[1Aauto]

Welcome to the site

 

[markusm]

Thanks to all for the info. To IAmTodd, I don't know when ABS was put on Explorers but my truck was totaled at one time and reassembled. It's titled as "1995 Assembled" but has parts from 1991 through 1994. When I buy parts I just call it '92 and usually get what I need. One more thing: my Haynes book says that you can't bleed the brakes on an ABS vehicle without a "very expensive tool". Of course I didn't read that until too late and removed the line from the caliper and just hung it out of the way while doing the rest of the work. It's definitely got air in the line and will need to be bled when I replace the caliper. Am I going to have a problem bleeding the brakes even though my ABS is disabled?