ABS Computer question

[SweetT]

I just installed a previously working used ABS computer and pump into my 98 K1200RS. My dealer had told me that my original one was faulty.

I took the bike for a test ride today and the ABS lights on the dash wouldn't stop blinking. I've checked everything else; sensors, wiring, fluid levels. Do I need to have this new computer reset by the dealer so that it will work in my bike?

[RiverRat280]

Might be wrong one for your bike I dunno but most times when I hear someone complain about flashing ABS light its because of a low battery. Your battery might be bad or just not charged up enough. Maybe.

[AntonLargiader]

Post here if this doesn't answer your questions:

http://www.largiader.com/abs/absfault.html

[Andy VH]

I replaced the ABS Controller in my 94 R1100RS, with a salvaged controller that I was told came from a R1100GS. I had confirmed the part numbers matched before I bought it on ebay for $250, a deal!

It installed easily for a home mechanic like me. I had no trouble bleeding the system, thanks in part to the Speed-Bleeders I had installed. It powered up just fine, and both lights flashed as I expected they would, since the controller had been powered down for some time.

Assuming you don't have a low battery, or that the main connector isn't fully engaged, or that a wheel speed sensor is out to far (thin shims adjust the position), then all you need to have done, is initialize the ABS controller to the bike in which it is installed. This you cannot do yourself, and the system will not work until it is done. A BMW mechanic will have the computer to initialize the controller to your bike.

Take your bike to your local dealer. Tell them you installed a replacement ABS controller on your bike and it needs to be initialized to the serial number and model of your bike. That being done will activate the ABS controller, and the serial number of the controller will be recorded with BMW for the serial number of your bike. This is important for warranty and any possible recall issues.

When I had this done on my bike, the Service Manager at my dealer, with a bit of attitude in his voice said, "I took care of it for you." Huh? He said the controller I bought and installed was actually from a K1100RS, not a R1100GS. Same controller, but it had to know which bike it was installed on. He "took care of it for me" and its been working great since.

Oh, my original ABS controlled was "fried" due to too many cold morning low voltage starts. Do yourself a favor and get a Battery Tender and keep your bike plugged in. Woulda saved me a lot of hassle and $300. I still got by cheap, as a new ABS controller lists out at $1600!

[SweetT]

Thanks for the information guys. I'll call my Beemer shop this week to set up an appointment to have it checked.
When I have problems like this it makes me miss my old K75 and have second thoughts about buying a newer bike. :dunno Maybe I'm turning into one of those grumpy old airhead guys!!!! :bolt


:laugh

[Andy VH]

Watch it feller, I got one of them thar Airheads too, an I'm pretty dang grumpy bout it!

Just kidding. I understand though. My 76 R100RS is so easy to work on. Its basic. Got no computers. Simple. That's one of the reasons I still have it.

Besides, then I have a reason to be grumpy.

[HFbmw]

Check out the internet riders site in regard to your light flashing. I have had that problem a few times but the reason for my ABS going out was using a 2 meter radio too close to the ABS computer control.
There is a three prong conector on the right side of the bike. Above the battery and under the side cover. I think its blue.
Get a chunk of wire and short out the outer 2 pins while turning the ignition key on and count to 10.
www.ibmwr.org is the place to get the information. Worked for me!
And you guys are probably correct with the low battery problem. It seems I can not use a 2meter FM mode radio on the K bike. I can ride all day long and talk on HF SSB running 100 watts but soon as I flip my radio to vhf and 2 meters the bike will die.

FM messes with the ignition somehow...eh

tim lindstrom
91k100lt