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Old 04-28-2008, 05:18 PM   #1
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Old 04-28-2008, 05:44 PM   #2
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The bearing in the water pump failed. This causes the pulley for the pump to wobble and the belt is not happy, since that belt also runs the alternator and power steering. That is why you had the warning lights and no power steering.

Here is the pump. Engine is out of the car for this picture, because it is hard to take a picture of the pump with the engine in the car.

The aftermarket pumps have a metal impeller. The factory pump has a plastic impeller. You will note this difference when you replace the pump.
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Old 04-28-2008, 06:44 PM   #3
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Thanks Toolpants!

Should I assume that the metal impeller will be better and stronger than the plastic ones found on the factory pump.
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Old 04-28-2008, 09:35 PM   #4
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Actually, there are pros and cons for each type of impeller. The metal ones are usually pressed pot metal. They could react more than the nylon ones if you allow your coolant chemistry to go sour and wear more. The nylon ones are maybe lighter and so draw slightly less HP. The differences are probably so minimal that it really doesn't matter.

Besides, this is not what failed (nor does it usually). The bearing is the likely culprit and either caused the pump/pulley to sieze, or as ToolPants described, it started wobbling, taking out the shaft seal with it (which is where the leak is coming from).

I've replaced maybe a dozen waterpumps in my time and always used a rebuilt one with no issues whatever. In fact, in a couple cases, the rebuilds lasted longer than OEM. Plus, they are almost always significantly cheaper.

Be sure to inspect the old pump when you remove it to account for all the mass. You wouldn't want to have pieces of the old seal or impeller flowing through your cooling system where they could cause blockage. If you find debris, or that impeller is very worn, you might think about flushing the system as part of the repair.
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Old 04-28-2008, 10:23 PM   #5
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There is a debate about the metal vs. plastic impeller.

I have formed no judgment yet.

Here is the factory pump with a plastic impeller. A local owner gave it to me. The bearing failed.
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Old 04-29-2008, 05:56 AM   #6
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Do you guys think I should change the thermostat and the hoses too?
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Old 04-29-2008, 08:01 AM   #7
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Personally, I would swap the 'T'stat, and at least check the hoses...
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