Land Rover Repair: rbrakingange rover, abs pump, pressure switch

Question
Hi Nigel, when I turn on the ignition on my '96 range rover 4.6 hse i hear the pump sound for approx 20 seconds and the fluid level drops to between the min max levels. I'm told this is normal, but what I cant understand is why, whenever I brake I hear the pump (fairly noisily) working. Is this normal

Answer
The sound of the brake pump running when the brake pedal is pressed is not normal. Most of the time the problem is caused by a worn brake accumulator.  Another common failure that can cause these symptoms is the pressure switch on the ABS pump. If the pump sounds strong and healthy when running, replace the accumulator assembly.  Make sure you buy a new accumulator.  If the pump sounds overly noisy, replace the pump.  You can buy a used pump, but always replace the accumulator at the same time as the pump using a new one.