Hello all!

After the ABS warning light began to light up randomly on my 1993 Volvo 850 I did the fautl code read-outs which showed, that the left front ABS sensor was the problem. I first replaced it with one of two scrapyard sensoros I had at home, cleared the error codes and drove for a while, but the ABS light was still lit and when I checked the error codes after driving, the codes for the front left wheel sensor were back. I then replaced the sensor with the other one from the scrapyard and even swapped the left and right sensors (so the known good one from the right wheel was on the left whell), but the ABS light and fault codes for the front left wheel (but not the right wheel) remained, although I erased all the codes after every trial). I also checked the wiring for the left wheel sensor, which was OK, so I concluded it must be the ABS modules fault. I went on to replace the ABS module, but the replacement I already had at home was from a car, that was equipped with TRACS, whereas my car wasn't. So naturally the replacement module now shows fault codes concernig TRACS, logically as there is no TRACS compatible modulator installed. The codes regarding ABS havent reapered since, so it probbably was the ABS module's fault. My problem now is, that the ABS warning light on the dashboard is still burning, although the error code is only relevant for the TRACS function. As I understand it, if the ABS light is burnning, the ABS system is turned off completely. My question is, if the ABS system is now of even in my case, where the error code only concernes the TRACS part of the system. If this is true then I would like to know if there is a simple way to cheat the ABS module into believing there is a TRACS system present. I do have the complete TRACS compatible system at home (modulator, pump and everything) but I can't use that system because the TRACS compatible modulator is leaking branking fluid (I already had the complete TRACS system installed a couple of years ago but had to remove it after a few days drivig upon noticing the leak and the poor braking power).

The ABS/trks module just might work... do you have any dirt roads in your area? That would be the easiest way to find out, unless it is raining cats and dogs.

Klaus

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Please answer, we need to know if the advice is good or bad. The 164 has a new home, all I am left with are 2 turbos :)

Thank you for the advice Klaus, I did as you suggested and sadly the ABS didn't work, the wheels were blocking, the car was sliding and I felt nothing on the brake pedal. I tested it on a smaller dirt parking area with low car speed, but I think the ABS works even at low speeds. Well, I guess I'll have to get another ABS module somwhere, or send my old one to Vitor, altghough shipping cost could be an issue here.

The 1994/95 ABS modules seldom fail, according to Victor. So keep looking in your local salvage yards. As you already know, the tracks option also has an additional brake line off the pump as well as lots more electronics.
Perhaps someone is parting a 1994/95 on this board. Put an ad in the classified and hardknocks in Florida might find one for you :) Send him an email?

Klaus
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Please answer, we need to know if the advice is good or bad. The 164 has a new home, all I am left with are 2 turbos :)

I'll try the scrapyards in my vincinity first, I saw a couple of 850 on my scrapyard trip to Italy last year. The import from the US to Slovenia (Europe) could be costly for me, as shipping and custom easily double the price of the item. Tried that once with a front direction indicator, which cost me more than an original part from a Volvo dealer at home in the end.