One warning light out, two more to go

[roadranger]

Ever since I got my ranger, the check engine, check oil, and abs warning lights have been on. I've finally got around to fixing one of them.

Last week I found out that I have been driving around with only front brakes since I got my truck last November. I never noticed since I normally only commute three miles to work and sometimes around town.

The brake fluid level was fine, but no fluid was getting to the rear brakes.

It turns out one of the rear wheel cylinders failed and the previous owner didn't fix the problem. I guess that eventually the rabs module gummed up and the truck stopped loosing fluid.

So I replaced both wheel cylinders, brake pads, and the rabs module and the truck still had the abs warning light on. I found code 12 with the self diagnosis (low fluid level). I went to wiggle the wire connector at the master cylinder just for the hell of it and found that someone had connected it upside down.

Six hours of labor later, the ABS warning light is now out. I think I now have all four brakes working. I'll know tomorrow when I take it to work.

I wanted to thank everyone for this great forum. I don't think I would have fixed my truck without it.

What unexplained things have previous owners done to your vehicle?

 

[AllanD]

IF I ever sold my truck whoever ended up with it would have a
complete mental collapase.

Other than interior parts and exterior sheet metal
next to nothing from an '87 will even fit my truck any more.

AD

 

[86ford]

IF I ever sold my truck whoever ended up with it would have a
complete mental collapase.

Other than interior parts and exterior sheet metal
next to nothing from an '87 will even fit my truck any more.

AD

The poor guys at the parts store hate me. It has gotten to the point they let me go find my own parts.

86

 

[ati190]

But I'm a fan of your ranger AllanD . That truck has personal style, personal modifications, which are unique to you and your truck. Also, it has it's own character. Keep it going Allan.

ati190

 

[Shran]

Yup, when I get done with my build it will be a mix of:

'74 Bronco
'75 Land Cruiser
'76 F150
'84 F150
'85 Bronco II
'85 Mustang
'86 Ranger
'97 Explorer

And probably others.

 

[RedRanger1991]

I'm on a first name basis with all the parts stores around here. Most of the time I have to find the stuff myself anyway so I dont even bother with the kid at the counter. They get lost when you need parts for 3 different vehicles to work on one.

 

[wrecking-crew]

They get lost when you need parts for 3 different vehicles to work on one.

my next truck will probably be like that.

pepboys by me know my truck really well:
Parts guy(p):whats wrong with it now.
me: i dunno. alot but i think i need new brakes for now
p:whats the year again?
me:88 ranger 2.9 5 spd 4wd
pbrings up prices) is that thing ever done?
me: nope
thats the normal conversation

 

[Jspafford]

The poor guys at the parts store hate me. It has gotten to the point they let me go find my own parts.

86

Naw, it's not the parts they don't like... They've just gotten to know you...

Check the oil level sending unit. Probably brusted off. It's in the oilpan. It would eliminate another light.