Brake Bleeding a 2005

[Legal Bill]

Hello. I'm a bit confused about what I read and watch concerning brake bleeding. Do I need a OBD code reader with ABS bleeding function to properly bleed the brake system in a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500?

 

[HemiLonestar]

For just the calipers no. It just the only way to bleed the ABS pump if it's needed (like purging/bleeding the whole system). I have found after bleeding the calipers then performing the ABS bleed a couple times it makes the brakes a little more responsive/sensitive.

 

[Legal Bill]

That's helpful. I have some funky looking brake lines Im thinking about replacing. That may require the reader.

 

[cornpop]

For just the calipers no. It just the only way to bleed the ABS pump if it's needed (like purging/bleeding the whole system). I have found after bleeding the calipers then performing the ABS bleed a couple times it makes the brakes a little more responsive/sensitive.

I just came across your post. Is a DRB3 scanner required for bleeding a G3 ABS module or will a bidirectional OBD scanner work? TIA

 

[HemiLonestar]

Depends on how good the scanner is; have to see if it is an available menu item.

 

[xtryfun]

On your ’05 Ram 1500 you can usually bleed the brakes the old-fashioned way without a scan tool. A simple two-person pump-and-hold method or a pressure bleeder works fine for most jobs (like after replacing calipers, lines, or fluid). Where the scan tool comes in is if you’ve let a lot of air get into the ABS module itself — then you may need to cycle the ABS pump/valves to push the air out, which a basic bleed won’t do.
So, if you’re just doing a fluid change or a caliper swap, you don’t need the OBD scanner. If the master cylinder ran completely dry or you replaced the ABS module, then yes, you’d want a scanner with ABS bleed to be 100% thorough.