My 85' 380SE obviously has a bad wheel sensor(s) on the ABS braking system. Upon depressing the brakes the first time after I pull forward, it feels like the ABS system is activating (and I can hear a groaning under the hood) and then ABS will activate again when depressing the brakes for a couple of times (without the noise this time) after I press them after that and then everything is normal - SOMETIMES. Sometimes I can still feel them operating at certain stops and all of this occurs when the warning lamp is off.

Sometimes after it has did this a few times, the "ANTI-LOCK" warning lamp will illuminate and the brakes work as normal. I am assuming that when the light illuminates that the anti-lock has de-activated itself, hence the ABS activation going away. Sometimes this light will come on within a few minutes, sometimes it takes longer and then sometimes it never comes on.

I am wondering if there is anything that may be damaged continued driving like this? Is there anyway to deactivate the ABS system, just so the normal braking system works? I am guessing there is a fuse for it, or a connection at the ABS unit? I suppose I could check my owners manual to see what fuse works it and what all else is on that circuit.

I would really like to get it repaired, but I am stingy and not ready to spend out $$$ for new wheel sensors. I know- I should not even own a Mercedes if I am stingy with money right?

Thanks in advance!