RAM 3500 Truck 2WD V8-5.7L VIN D (2003)
Wheel Speed Sensor: Description and Operation
WHEEL SPEED SENSORS
The EBC 125 (RWAL) system uses only one speed sensor mounted in the rear axle for the rear wheels.
The EBC 325 (ABS) system uses one wheel speed sensor on each front wheel, and one mounted in the rear axle for the rear wheels.
The sensor measures the wheel speed by monitoring a rotating tone wheel. The signal generated by the sensor and tone wheel is transmitted to the
CAB.
Each sensor has:
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A magnetic/coil pick-up (speed sensor) that is mounted to a fixed component
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An air gap between the tone wheel and the speed sensor assembly
As the teeth of the tone wheel move through the magnetic field of the sensor, an AC voltage is generated. This signal frequency increases or decreases
proportionally to the speed of the wheel. The CAB monitors this signal to check for a sudden change in single or multiple wheel decelerations. If the
deceleration of one or more wheels is not within a predetermined amount, the CAB takes control for antilock action through the HCU.
Diagnostically, the coils of the wheel speed sensors have different amounts of resistance based upon the location. When measured across the connector
two terminals, the resistance should be:
Front sensor:
90 °C (194 °F) ................................................................................................................................................................................ 2259 - 2761 Ohms
25 °C (77 °F) .................................................................................................................................................................................. 1800 - 2200 Ohms
-40 °C (-40 °F) ............................................................................................................................................................................... 1332 - 1628 Ohms
Rear sensor:
90 °C (194 °F) ................................................................................................................................................................................ 2900 - 3600 Ohms
25 °C (77 °F) .................................................................................................................................................................................. 1600 - 2300 Ohms
-40 °C (-40 °F) ................................................................................................................................................................................ 1000 - 1400 Ohms
NOTE:For all resistance ranges add 30% to the value for extreme heat, subtract 30% for extreme cold.
On a EBC 325 (ABS) system each front wheel speed is monitored through the speed sensor mounted at the wheel end of the hub. On the EBC 125
(RWAL) and EBC 325 (ABS) systems the rear wheel speed is monitored through the speed sensor mounted in the rear axle assembly.
The CAB will disable antilock control, illuminate the amber ABS warning indicator circuit via the PCI BUS, and store diagnostic trouble codes if it
detects a problem with any or all of the wheel speed sensors:
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Incorrect circuit resistance when checked with no vehicle movement
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Incorrect sensor output during vehicle movement
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Erratic sensor output during vehicle movement
DESCRIPTION
The ABS brake system uses 3 wheel speed sensors. A sensor is mounted to each front hub/bearings. The third sensor is mounted on top of the rear
axle differential housing.
OPERATION
The Wheel Speed Sensor consists of a magnet surrounded by windings from a single strand of wire. The sensor sends a small AC signal to the CAB.
This signal is generated by magnetic induction. The magnetic induction is created when a toothed sensor ring (exciter ring or tone wheel) passes the
stationary magnetic WSS.
