Ted's Water Pump

["Al Powell" <APOWELL@agcom.tamu.edu>]

Ted Harlan <trharlan@one.net> asked:

> 2:I have a serious coolant leak. I see that it is dripping down the 
> side of the oil pan. I checked all visible fasteners and concluded by 
> process of elimination that the leak is likely coming from the 
> vicinity of the water pump. I hope it's a fastener, of course, but I'm 
> taking her in for a professional diagnosis soon. The garage is pretty 
> good about putting in other people's parts. 

> Questions here:
> a: Is there an easy way to target the leak, i.e get to the pump?

Pull the top half of the timing belt cover.  It comes right off, 
about a two minute job, all you need is a 5 or 6 mm hex wrench.  You 
might be able to see if it's leaking in there.  If it is, you must 
pull the timing belt to get at the pump.  This is NOT easy - 
especially the first time. To get the rear cover off for pump access, 
you must either remove the cam gear or cut the cover in half.  To 
remove the cam gear, you will probably have to remove the valve cover 
and use a large wrench on the cam flats to brace it.  And ON, and 
ON....I have rent my garments in public about this within the last 48 
hours....

> b: If it needs replacement, how long should it take the mechanic?

The resident geniuses on this group say they can do it in as little 
as 90 minutes.  I'd say flat rate should be 3-4 hours.

> c: If I am semi-competent (uhh...) how long should it take me?

First time?  8 to 10 hours.  I will put in more than that, over five 
to eight days, before I'm done.  But I'm changing the crankshaft seal 
and waiting for tools....

> d: Anyone know of a remanned pump for <$189.00?

Call Blaufergnugen.  Just bought one for under $50.  They carry the 
good German model.

> e: If I do fix-it-myself, any gotcha's? easy mistakes to make?

Don't start me now....just aboue everything there will bite if you've 
not done it before.  Check archives on this.  Email me direct if you 
want me to forward messages others sent me with advice. 



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Al Powell, Ph.D.                 Voice:  409/845-2807
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