Water Pump Replacement

[Richard Bruce]

Looking into replacing my water pump. 60k on the clock with no o/h problems. Researching where to buy and I find alot of choices. It seems what I have read the plastic impellers seem to be an issue breaking and lodging in the engine.

Should I go with an aftermarket metal impeller water pump or stick with the Pelican composite impeller pump. almost twice the cost.

Thanks in advance for your recommendations.

[thstone]

I went with the Pelican OEM replacement kit (waterpump + low temp thermostat). Don't forget a new coolant cap!

http://986forum.com/forums/general-discussions/43198-new-waterpump-t-stat-today.html

[Spinnaker]

The general recommedation is to stay away from the metal impeller because of the chance of engine block damage if the shaft bearing fails. The water pump cavity is cast into the engne block and has a very thin back wall that can be breached if the impeller grinds on it. This will cause coolant to enter the crankcase and you will be shopping for a new engine.
I bought a Porsche OEM water pump and gasket last year from Sunset Imports in Oregon for around $250.00 online. I ordered it on Thursday morning and it came by UPS the next day. I was dumbfounded by the fast service. Of course I am only one State and 180 miles away, but it is still amazing.