Is there a simple way to bleed ABS brakes?

[lskrogers]

I have a 2000 Ranger with ABS and I'm sure I need to bleed the brakes however, I'm not so sure after reading a few web sites just how easy that process would be. The problem: You take off and apply the brakes. You push down a bit on the brake pedal and then a little more. Then all of a sudden, the brakes grab and then seem to work fine. The braking should be much smoother and from what I have read here and there, it seems to fit the classic, "I have air in the system and it need to be bled."
Anybody out there know of a way to do this without specialized equipment?
Thanks!!!!

 

[Sunk]

I wasn't aware there was a special method for bleeding ABS systems..... With the vehicle not running the ABS should control the brakes right?

Every car I've ever done I just did it the regular old way...

 

[Sasquatch_Ryda]

Just bleed it normally, start at the right rear, left rear, right front, left front.

 

[Earl43P]

HOWEVER, your problem sounds more like a bad Master Cylinder (bypassing internally) than "air in the brakes" to me.

If you haven't opened a bleeder or replaced a wheel cylinder or caliper, bleeding is not going to cure your problem. If it had air in it, your pedal would be spongy or the pedal travel would be off, like no brakes until you get nearly to the floor.

Yours sounds like a classic bad master cylinder to me.