1996 Ford Ranger Owner's Manual - Page 179

Driving Your Ranger Four Wheel Anti-lock Brake System Your vehicle may be equipped with a Four Wheel Anti-lock Braking System (4WABS). The 4WABS helps the driver to maintain vehicle control by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The 4WABS operates with a computer that is able to optimize vehicle control during braking on varying tire and road conditions by modulating the brake pressure at each of the front wheels and the rear axle. This "pumping action" is similar to the driver "pumping" the brakes but happens at a much faster rate. RWARNING The Anti-lock system does NOT assist the vehicle in stopping quickly on wet or icy surfaces. Heavy braking combined with poor road conditions could cause you to lose steering control of your vehicle. Using anti-lock brakes The operation of a vehicle with 4WABS is not similar to the operation of normal brakes. Some differences exist and are listed below: s Apply the brake steadily. In the event of a panic stop, do NOT "pump" the brakes. "Pumping" the brakes during an Anti-lock stop will diminish braking effectiveness. s During an Anti-lock stop, the driver will notice a brake pedal pulsation and hear some noise from the engine compartment. This is an indication that the 4WABS system is working correctly and is normal. 179