Ford Repair: anti lock brakes, 1995 ford windstar, hydraulic control system

Question
I own a 1995 ford windstar some time ago I experienced a grinding noise coming from the front passenger side abs when the brakes were applied. I get no abs or brake system warning indication.I disabled the system so that I would have normal braking until I could find info on how to repair it. Can you help me out?

Answer
Jim, the anti-lock brake system is not going to be easy to diagnose over the internet - you would need a scan tool and service manual with pinpoint tests to follow for each/any codes.  But since the ABS light didn't come on, I doubt you have a ABS problem anyway.
However, the base brake system may be problem, and that is more routine.  You didn't mention if the grinding noise went away after you disabled the ABS, but I can't think of anything in the ABS that would grind (it is an electical/ hydraulic control system)  The base brakes are certainly the area to inspect first, anyway.
Pull the front wheels and look at the pad thickness, and inpect the rotors for evidence of metal-to-metal contact.  You may have a worn pad, or a backing pad that slipped off the brake pad and is touching the rotor.  If the pads are not wearing evenly, check the slide pins to see that they are free and move easily.  Also look at the axle and the ABS reluctor wheel that is attached to it - I've seen a few of them crack and move on the C/V joint, but that should set a code for the R/F wheel speed sensor error.
Hope this helps...
Clay