Having a bizarre problem

I've been around the block with this problem here on the forum and have tried many of the suggestions but we're still stuck.

Here's the problem...I have a 96 Windstar that starts and idles perfectly in park, neutral, and 1st gear but stalls when put into drive and reverse. We have jacked it up and taken the wheels and brake system off and WITHOUT using the brake we can change through every gear fine. As soon as we put the brakes back on it starts stalling again.

We have checked the EGR valve, IAC, changed the torque converter clutch solenoid, and also disconnected the ABS on each side (the connector closes to each wheel). We have basically ruled out a torque converter issue through simple "playing around".

We've been told now that this probably has something to do with the ABS system. Any ideas on what this might be?

Have you checked the condition of the transmission range selector? They are known for causing all kinds of goofy problems. It's located at the top of the trans and has different resistance values for each gear range. When the resistors fail or short, it can make you crazy trying to track down the problem.

Sorry, I forgot that one. We haven't checked it but we changed that part last summer after I lost 3rd and fourth gears and a two hour drive home.

Any other ideas? This one is really stumping us.

Sadly, I have had relatively new parts fail....so keep that one in mind as a possible cause.

It's worth a check. Is there any way to do a test on this part to see if it's failed or do you simply have to buy a new one and try it?

I found a post with instructions on how to test the ranger sensor and did so last night. The sensor seems to be fine. I ran the issue past another mechanic and he seems to think it is ABS related. The ABS light is on but it's been on for the past two years (ever since it came back from a Ford mechanic) so we didn't think much of it being lit. Also, the cruise control hasn't worked for quite some time and he seems to think this is all related.

My husband has disconnected the ABS at the wheels on both sides but apparently there are two more sensors (near the top of the engine)? Can anyone tell me where these sensors are and if there is a way to test them without buying new ones first?

I have seen a vac booster lock up Vacuum and a car stall. Remember if you disconnect the vacuum booster you will have limited braking...It worth a try.. But may have vac problem to the booster and have no sign of brake problems..i have only seen this once and took me forever to find the problem..