Water Pump replacement?

dejacky

New Member
Jun 12, 2005
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As I was working on the car (that has been sitting for over 6 months), I noticed what appears to be leaked coolant fluid that came from the water pump. Does anyone know what this symptom means as far as potential problems with the car? Should I replace the water pump and flush out the motor + radiator with fresh coolant?

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JonoTurbo

Going for broke
Mar 30, 2005
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Its tough to tell exactly what's leaking there. It may be one or more of the gaskets in the water pump area, or it may be coming out of the pump itself, indicating a seal failure. Either way I'd pull the pump and check the condition of everything in that area.
 

Satan

Supramania Contributor
Mar 31, 2005
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If you hadn't already done so, I'd recommend you take this oppty to freshen up the front of the engine...

New waterpump - even if it's just a gasket leaking now, it's done its job for a 100K+ miles. It can last another 100K miles, or die next week. Not something I'd gamble on, with a waterpump... About $100 at any autoparts ($100 on Ebay will get you a timing belt kit w/a WP).

Timing Belt - Same reasoning as waterpump. I got my timing belt sets from Ebay, 'cause they also come with a new tensioner. They are OEM replacement, but you can also go with your favorite/preferred brand.

Front seals - Same reasoning as above... However, if you decide not to replace the cam or FMS, do at least inspect them for leaks, etc (requiring removing the cam gears and cover plate).


The labor and disassembly is almost the same to do all the above (maybe only a few more steps/bit more time). The cost is minimal/negligable when compared to having to go back in there later, to do it again for another piece you skip now. The difference in parts cost, will be mostly because of your own preference. Again, just my suggestion, based on mileage/condition of those parts. If the other things are recently new, then I'd still recommend at least replacing the WP.


Good luck!