I found out today that the connector at the ABS modulator/pump has a cover that snaps off the back, allowing easy access for tests on that end of the system. Ground pin 11 to run the pump (no more than 2 seconds, warns Bentley); pin 2 tests the solenoid relay.

Pins 1, 3, and 5 of course activate the solenoids. I heard each click, but the odd thing was that one click is all I could get. I was hoping to cycle the solenoid open and closed while bleeding brakes, but after every time I activated a solenoid, I'd have to turn the key off, then back to position II to do it again. Must be a protective feature that I'll have to study more to bypass.

In any case, good start to learning about the ABS module.

I took the car out for some minor vandalism again, drifting off the road onto the gravel shoulder, and was able to get the ABS to modulate each front brake circuit, I think. Bled another pint of brake fluid through each front caliper. Lather rinse, repeat. Finally, I also popped the master cylinder off the booster to check for fluid, and decided to extend the push rod a bit. I found it a few mm short of touching the end of the master cylinder at rest.

Conclusion is that the car seems to stop a bit better, but the pedal still feels terrible. I still think I'm looking for a compressible causing a mushy feel, i.e. air. I think I'll drive it for a while and reevaluate.

Another 6 years? Sooner, I hope.