Removing ABS Sensors

Greg French

Well-known member
Sep 7, 2004
234
0
54
Myrtle Beach, SC
I am about to remove and replace my ABS sensors. How do I get them out? Is there a special tool I need, or do I just give them a good old Yank? What elso (other than the tire) should I remove to gain easier access?
Thanks
 

BrianT

Active member
Oct 17, 2004
25
0
Nevada
Greg,

I'm not sure what you mean by a "Yank", but be wary of pulling on the connector wire. Actually, at least on the front, you can remove the two bolts that hold the sensors in the swivel housing. Then, simply take a screwdriver and gently pry underneath the spacer, being careful not to damage the shims underneath. These can be paper-thin sometimes. If the sensors put up any resistance they are probably just corroded/dirty.

Also, now would be the perfect time to check your swivel preload. And, don't forget to reinstall the brake line bracket. Seems like I forget that every time.
 

BrianT

Active member
Oct 17, 2004
25
0
Nevada
Oh, and if you are able, removing the hub/rotor always helps. I am one of those strange people that likes to remove a lot of surrounding parts so I can have clear access to what I am working on.
 

Greg French

Well-known member
Sep 7, 2004
234
0
54
Myrtle Beach, SC
Screws, eh?

That would explain why I couldn't get them out.

Are there screws on the rear? I got the tire and mud shield off, like the manual said, but didn't see any screws. There were none in the picture, either. It said to "Find a suitable tool and pry the sensor out"

Tried that with a screwdriver, then pliers, and finally vice grips. If the sensor wasn't bad before...it is now. Wasn't really concerned about saving it, as I have new ones. I gave up after workinh on one all day with no success.

Any other hints? I was going to try taking the rotor and everything off.
 

alex

Well-known member
Apr 29, 2004
2,310
0
Libertyville, IL
Must be really rusted in there if you can't pry it out the back. Try spraying some penetrating oil on it, give it some time to soak in and try to pry it out again. if that fails, remove the hub & rotor and drive it out with a punch.

Edit: you should not have to remove the top swivel bolts to remove the front sensors...again, unless they are so badly rusted in there. and if that's the case your swivels are probably full of rust and water and you can look forward to replacing the cvs, spindle bearings and swivel seals soon.
 

Greg French

Well-known member
Sep 7, 2004
234
0
54
Myrtle Beach, SC
Used a fair amount od penetrating oil. Still stuck.

I can punch them out from the other side? Good. I will probably have to do that.

I haven't even attempted the front yet. I have new rotors, swivil ball seals, and stuff for those. It will be a partial rebuild.

Thanks