ABS Control Module SOFTWARE download

[trcunni]

I'm reading a service manual for replacement of the Anti-Lock Brake Control Module (ABCM) for a 1999 Windstar. It states that "Prior to the removal of the ABCM, it is necessary to upload module configuration information to the scan tester. This information is downloaded to the new ABCM."

Question1: Is there any way for the home mechanic to do this, or has Ford made this a dealer-only repair?

Question2: Is there an electrical relay that is separate from the ABCM and if so where is it located?

[wiswind]

The software upload / download will require a unit that is capable of this level of communication....which would be at a shop.
The Reader / programer will cost more than having the shop do the repair for you.

As to the separate relay.......1999 was a major change year....so I will leave that question to someone with experience with 1999 and newer.

[12Ounce]

Assuming we are talking about the $300 gizmo that is located under the floorpan, under the driver's seat ... attached on top of a mechanical package with about a dozen hydraulic lines attached to it ... all the hydraulic lines have to be removed BTW. If that's the one ... well ...

Once I replaced this thing (on my '99) with a new part from the Ford dealer and knew nothing about the download/upload business .. and everything worked out just fine. (My wallet was sore for about 6 months.) Perhaps the new part came with some default program already in it that met my van's needs. ??? Who knows.

[trcunni]

The gizmo I'm talking about is behind the battery / under the air filter. It is an electronic gizmo that gets the signals from each of the wheels and computes what the wheels are doing (i.e. are they locked up or still turning). I think the gizmo that you replaced with all the hydraulic lines is the Hydraulic Control Unit.