I've got a 1995 250t wagon that I'm currently fixing up. The ABS system does not function (It's got the 5.3 system), and the light on the dash does not light up (ever).

 

I'm thinking that the previous owner probably took the ABS light out to get a warrant of fitness after the ABS unit stopped working -- obviously this wont work to get a warrant of fitness from any but the dumbest mechanics, since they are supposed to check that the ABS self check works.

 

Before I go taking the gauge cluster out to look for a blown or removed bulb, is there anything else (that's easyer to get to) that could cause the light not to work?

Nothing should cause the bulb not to light. It should come on when you have the key in the run position before you start the car. That's your self check for the light bulb.