1996 Ford Explorer XLT abs light comes on on

The ABS light is for the Anti-lock Braking System. The MIL will illuminate if there is a difference in wheel speed sensors signals to the PCM. So you might have a wheel speed sensor that is going out on you. Does the light come on at low speeds, or just higway speeds? You could take the vehicle to a local parts store and have them pull the codes for you and that will tell you which speed sensor is out of whack. Also road grime, dirt and gunk buildup can cause speed sensors to give false readings. Hope tihs helps you out.......