Dakota 2WD V6-3.9L VIN X (1997)
Wheel Speed Sensor: Description and Operation
Rear Wheel Antilock Brakes
RWAL Wheel Speed Sensor
The rear Wheel Speed Sensor (WSS) is mounted in the rear differential housing. The WSS consists of a magnet surrounded by windings from a single
strand of wire. The sensor sends a small AC signal to the Controller Anti-Lock Brake (CAB). This signal is generated by magnetic induction. The
magnetic induction is created when a toothed ring (exciter ring or tone wheel) passes the stationary magnetic WSS.
Toothed Exciter Ring
The toothed ring is press-fitted onto the differential carrier next to the final drive ring gear. When the ring gear is rotated, the exciter ring passes the tip
of the WSS. As the exciter ring passes the tip of the WSS, the magnetic lines of force of the sensor are cut, causing the magnetic field to be moved across
the sensor's windings. This, in turn causes current to flow through the WSS circuit.
Wheel Speed Sensor (WSS) Operation
Every time a tooth of the exciter ring passes the tip of the WSS, an AC signal is generated. Each AC signal (positive to negative signal or sine wave) is
