1998 Ford Ranger Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 64

Driving BRAKES Your brakes are self-adjusting. Refer to the "Service Guide" for scheduled maintenance. Occasional brake noise is normal and often does not indicate a performance concern with the vehicle's brake system. In normal operation, automotive brake systems may emit occasional or intermittent squeal or groan noises when the brakes are applied. Such noises are usually heard during the first few brake applications in the morning; however, they may be heard at any time while braking and can be aggravated by environmental conditions such as cold, heat, moisture, road dust, salt or mud. If a "metal-to-metal," "continuous grinding" or "continuous squeal" sound is present while braking, the brake linings may be worn-out and should be inspected by a qualified service technician. Rear anti-lock brake system (RABS) Rear Anti-lock Brake System (RABS) is standard equipment on this vehicle. RABS is designed to help you maintain directional stability in emergency stopping situations. With RABS, the rear brakes are kept from locking during panic stops; however, the front wheels can lock because they are not controlled by RABS. You should apply the brakes with steadily increasing force, as if "squeezing" the brakes. If you feel the front wheels begin to lock, momentarily release the pedal and repeat the "squeeze" technique. Whenever the front wheels lock, the vehicle cannot be steered. A clicking noise and slight pedal pulsation during RABS braking events indicates the RABS is functioning. Pedal pulsation coupled with clicking noise while braking under panic conditions on loose gravel, wet or snowy roads is normal and indicates proper functioning of the vehicle's RABS. If the vehicle has continuous vibration or shudder while braking, felt mainly in the steering wheel, the vehicle most likely needs service. The RABS operates by detecting the onset of rear wheel lockup during brake applications and compensating for this tendency. 64