Also would buying a used abs modulator offline be a bad idea if nothing works? Or is that just asking for the same kind of problems? Thanks

 

A lot of the abs faults can be intermittent. I'd just worry about whichever codes come back if they come back.

 

The problem with buying another modulator online is it's a gamble, you may be exchanging your particular set of problems for another equally as perplexing. IMO the best way forward is to have the ABS codes read and recorded properly and where possible work through them and act upon them. A modulator isn't anywhere near as complicated as many imagine but there are weaknesses and repetitive defects as with any engineered contraption. Obviously it's extremely difficult to assess the provenance of any LR modulator for sale online as it could be between 11 to 17 years old and 50K-200K miles of use and abuse. IMO stick with what you have as at least you know the global issues pending and you maybe can sort them. I haven't any idea how much a specialist ABS workshop would charge to identify your particular issues and rectify them but I suppose a call to Falconworks wouldn't be a waste of time.

 

Thanks for all the responses. I'm dropping the beauty off to get its headgaskets fixed today so I can step away from the Christmas tree dashboard. it stays off a majority of the time now but randomly turns on even without braking. So I'm thinking it's a bad connection somewhere

 

So is the headlights dimming when the abs pump runs a big hint at a electrical problem? When the abs pump runs when the brakes are slipping on ice or traction kicks in the headlights flicker and dim. Any ideas if this gives a better idea of the problem ?

 

You need to make sure the ground wire for the ABS pump is good. Locate where they installed it, make sure it is tight. If there is paint or dirt underneath it, take some sandpaper and get to bare metal. Then tighten the ground.

 

or your pump is failing the the dimming is from the extra amps the pump is pulling.

 

Pretty common, especially in rust prone areas. Check behind the drivers side headlamp for a bundle of ground wires. They are kind of hard to get to.