I thought I would report a fix instead of always complaining about a problem.

After about two years of seeing the "ABS unavailable" message and spending money on a code reader and two wheel sensors, I finally tracked it down to the module. I removed it and soldered the two pins and that worked for a day. I broke down and purchased a module from a junked XJ8 and that did the trick. No more messages and no more yellow or red warning lights! I even purchased a brake light switch thinking that was the problem.

I had to disconnect the 4 brake lines on top to remove the module and did not have to bleed the brakes. No difference in brake pedal travel or braking. (The first time I removed the module I did bleed all 4 wheels.)

I'm very happy with this result and now will next try to replace the upper shock mounts and lower shock bushings. The lower ball joint boots are split open and I will replace them also. The local inspection station tells me the ball joints are good and don't need replacement.

I been using twist-in spring spacers from Autozone so I'm hoping the new spring mounts will raise the front enough so I won't be needing them.

This should be an easy repair, right????

 

Good to hear. I wouldn't have had the patience to put up with a warning in the message box for two years!

Remember you'll need an alignment check immediately after fitting new ball joints to avoid any nasty suprises with rapid tyre wear.

Graham

 

Well it turns out it's not an easy repair at all. I just ordered a new fulcrum bolt and bushings because the bolt needs to be cut to remove the wishbone. Turns out the bushing sleeves are permanently rusted to the shaft and no amount of penetrant or heat or pressing even begins to budge it. The shaft rotates fairly easily and the bushings rotate with it . Clamping the bushings prevents rotating the shaft and I don't wand to destroy the washers.