QuestionOn December 2, 2005 I lost the whole ABS brake system. We have (the shop and I) been trying to find replacement for that system. Twice the parts came in but did not fit the car. Apparently it has to match the VIN number, is this correct? If that system cannot be found is it possible to install another brake system for the car?
My wonderful son and daughter-in-law gave me a Chrysler 300C for Christmas, wow is that a honey!
I need to put the 1990 Imperial on the market but can't do that without the repair.
Thanks again for previous help and for this also.
AnswerHi Viola,
I sent this reply to your very generous evaluation but it evidentally was delayed in the AOL pathway to you.
"Hi Viola,
The question is rather, I believe, can the ABS system be detached from the present master cylinder/power brake unit and simply by-passed. If it is leaking fluid such that the red brake warning light comes on when the fluid level drops too low, it will have to be hydraulically by-passed by re-routing a brake hose or two. I see no reason to have to install any other non-abs parts. So inquire of a brake shop if that can be done reasonably, to just eliminate that entire ABS system, or alternatively to remove or seal the part that is leaking so as to accomplish the same thing. You aren't trying to maintain the ABS function with this gambit, just eliminate it so the balance of the system works like a non-abs brake system would.
Roland"
Hi Viola,
I would check it out with the parts counter at a Chrysler dealership if they are not the ones who have already been involved with this issue.
My initial reaction to your situation is that if I were the owner of the car I would not have any hesitation to sell it as is. I assume that only the ABS system is out of order, as indicated by the yellow lamp being on (and that the red brake warning system lamp in NOT on). The ABS system is only supplementary to the normal power brake system and according to the shop manual the brake system works exactly identically to that of an Imperial that didn't have the ABS system under those conditions. It is "fail-safe" in that respect and the driver is not at any additional risk that would not be present if the car was sold without that feature, which many are. If the red brake warning light is on, then that means the some repair must be done for safety. Unless the shop can explain why that is not the case I would sell it on that basis. I suspect it is a very fine car and that you should be able to get a fair price for it without the ABS in working order. I believe that the cost of making it right will possibly be more than the car can be sold for even after you fix it. These parts are not cheap and the labor too will add up.
If you need any 'proof' that this is the case, let me know and I will send you the page from the Chrysler shop manual that explains this to be the facts. If there is some requirement under state law to have the ABS functioning when a car so-equipped changes hands, then an alternative might be to totally disconnect that system, in which case it would be the same as a '90 Imperial that didn't come equipped with the ABS "feature".
Roland
