Programming TRW ABS Module on a 2005 1500 4x4

[jordankeck]

I have a 2005 Ram 1500 4x4 with the 2 wheel TRW ABS module. I have the flashing yellow ABS light until I drive a short distance, then yellow ABS and red Brake lights come on solid. The truck has popped up these codes at different times I have checked it:

• Code 37 for intermittent signal from the rear speed sensor
• Code 83 for tire revs per mile out of range (I adjust for the tire size with a DRBIII years ago and think this is residual from that

I have replaced the rear speed sensor with no change to the codes, as well as doing a wire continuity check from the speed sensor to the ABS module. This leave the ABS module as the culprit. I purchased a used TRW ABS module, but it is giving me the same errors. I am guessing my next step is programming that module, but am wondering if there are any affordable tools I can download or buy for my laptop to program that module? I see lots of options for the 06+ Rams, but not for the 05 and older. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[jordankeck]

So I rented a DRBIII and went though the "MISCELLANEOUS" option of the ABS section and updated my revs per mile to correct my speedometer. When I restarted the truck I no longer had the flashing yellow ABS light, but after driving down the road a short distance both the BRAKE and ABS lights come on solid. I am still getting a code 37 for the rear axle sensor. I had previously replaced the sensor with no affect on the code 37. I am now wondering if I may have crud built up in the axle near that may prevent the sensor from picking up every pass from the ABS tone ring. I also have an issue with cruise control where the truck acts like it is hunting for the speed instead of maintaining. Has anyone ran across issues like this and a code 37?

 

[Frank Smith]

I'm fighting this issue also. Any updates you can report will be greatly appreciated. Thanks

 

[jordankeck]

I actually posted this same issue on (5) different forums and no one has responded to my latest update. So my next step is going to be pulling the rear diff cover to drain and replace the gear oil. I suspect that crud/metal fines have accumulated around the sensor in the diff housing, and cleaning everything out with brake parts cleaner will allow the sensor to pick up the tone ring correctly once again. I am unsure how soon I will get to that with winter setting in here in northern Indiana.

 

[jordankeck]

Another update: I pulled the rear diff cover and found that the previous owner must have broken the speed sensor off in the housing where it damaged the ABS tone ring teeth. I will be replacing the ABS tone ring if anyone has one. Just closing the loop on this so anyone searching has useful info.