This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the ABS tone ring (reluctor ring) on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 with 5.0L V8, typically located on the wheel hub or axle shaft.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• ABS tone ring (reluctor ring) × 1 — Use OEM Ford part specific to axle type
• Brake caliper bolt thread locker × 1 — Loctite 243 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks in front of wheels remaining on ground
3. Loosen wheel lug nuts on the affected wheel while vehicle is on ground (do not remove)
4. Raise vehicle with floor jack and secure on jack stands at manufacturer recommended lift points
5. Remove wheel completely and set aside

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove brake caliper
   Remove the brake caliper by loosening the caliper slide pin bolts. Support the caliper with a hanger or wire to prevent stress on the brake hose. Do not disconnect the brake line unless absolutely necessary.
   Torque spec

   Caliper Slide Pin Bolts35 Nm (26 lb-ft)
2. 2

   Remove brake rotor
   Remove the brake rotor from the hub. If rotor is stuck due to corrosion, apply penetrating oil and tap gently with a rubber mallet from behind. On some models, rotor may be secured with a small retaining screw that must be removed first.
3. 3

   Inspect ABS tone ring location
   Locate the ABS tone ring on the rear axle shaft or hub assembly. On RWD F-150s, the tone ring is typically pressed onto the axle shaft behind where the brake rotor mounts. Clean the area around the tone ring with a wire brush to remove dirt and corrosion.
4. 4

   Inspect wheel speed sensor clearance
   Check the position of the wheel speed sensor relative to the tone ring. Note the air gap distance (typically 0.5-1.5mm). This will be important for reinstallation verification. The sensor does not need to be removed unless damaged.
5. 5

   Remove damaged ABS tone ring
   Carefully pry or pull the old tone ring off the hub or axle shaft. If the ring is pressed on, use a suitable puller to avoid damaging the axle shaft surface. The tone ring may be corroded in place; apply penetrating oil and allow time to soak if needed. Some rings may have a retaining clip that must be removed first.
   ⚠Do not use excessive force or sharp tools that could score or damage the axle shaft sealing surface or bearing seat.
6. 6

   Clean mounting surface
   Thoroughly clean the axle shaft or hub surface where the tone ring mounts using a wire brush and shop rags. Remove all rust, corrosion, and old adhesive. The surface must be clean and smooth for proper tone ring seating.
7. 7

   Install new ABS tone ring
   Position the new tone ring onto the axle shaft or hub, ensuring correct orientation (teeth facing the wheel speed sensor). Press or tap the ring into place using a rubber mallet or appropriate installation tool. The ring should seat fully and evenly against its stop or shoulder. Verify the ring is not cocked or misaligned.
   ⚠Ensure tone ring teeth are not damaged during installation. Even minor damage can cause ABS faults.
8. 8

   Verify tone ring installation
   Check that the tone ring is fully seated and rotates concentrically with the axle. Use a dial indicator or visual inspection to confirm the ring does not wobble. Verify proper clearance between tone ring teeth and wheel speed sensor (should match original specification, typically 0.5-1.5mm).
9. 9

   Reinstall brake rotor
   Clean the hub mounting surface and reinstall the brake rotor. Ensure the rotor seats flush against the hub. If equipped, install any rotor retaining screws.
10. 10

    Reinstall brake caliper
    Remove caliper from hanger and position it over the brake rotor. Apply silicone brake grease to the caliper slide pins as specified. Install and tighten the caliper slide pin bolts to specification.
    Torque spec

    Caliper Slide Pin Bolts35 Nm (26 lb-ft)
11. 11

    Reinstall wheel
    Mount the wheel onto the hub and hand-tighten all lug nuts. Lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground (still supported by jack stands). Torque the lug nuts to specification in a star pattern.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts140 Nm (103 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Lower vehicle and final checks
    Fully lower the vehicle and remove jack stands. Perform a final torque check on wheel lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure proper seating.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts140 Nm (103 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all brake components are properly secured and torqued to specification
2. Verify brake caliper moves freely on slide pins and is not binding
3. Confirm wheel speed sensor connector is fully seated and secured
4. Double-check wheel lug nut torque after first 50-100 miles of driving

Verification

• Start the engine and verify the ABS warning light follows normal operation (illuminates briefly at startup then extinguishes)
• Using a scan tool, check for ABS fault codes related to the wheel speed sensor on the replaced tone ring
• Test drive the vehicle at low speed (5-10 mph) and verify the speedometer functions correctly
• Perform a controlled ABS activation test in a safe area to confirm proper ABS operation
• Recheck for any ABS warning lights or fault codes after test drive

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