00 Silverado ABS sensor

[dsharp01]

My 2000 Chevy Silverado has some ABS issues going on. Whn I apply the brake and am at low speeds (< 5mph) the ABS engages for a second or two due to rust interfereing with the sensor contact point. I was told that I need to replace the sensor and clean the hub. My question is...... what do I use to clean the hub and how do I go about cleaning it?

[Shaun_300]

PM me your VIN number and I'll see if the recall has been done to your truck, might be able to get it fixed for free.

If not it's a bit tricky to get them out without breaking. If they don't break you don't usually need to replace the sensors. The problem is the rust between the hub and sensor increases the air gap between the reluctor wheel in the hub and the magnetic pickup on the sensor, screwing up the AC voltage signal. Once you get the caliper and rotor off, (need a 18mm socket for the caliper bracket bolts, don't take the T-55 pins out of the caliper if you're not replacing the pads) get the harness out of the clips going up along the control arm and knuckle up to the frame. Take the allen head bolt out, I think it's a 5mm if I remember correctly and wiggle back and forth with pliers while gently pulling up, most of the time they'll come out. Roll up a small piece of paper towel and push it in the hole so it's just under the surface so you can grab it later. This keeps the dirt and crap from falling inside the hub. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to get the rust off and down to basically bare steel again, give it a shot of primer to prevent the rust from coming back, put a little lube on the small o-ring on the sensor and reinstall everything.

If they break off you're pretty well euchered and need a whole new hub if you can't get the broken half of the sensor out of the hub.