Thoughts after water pump shopping
 

Some interesting things I've discovered or rediscovered while shopping for a new WP.

1) All of the local autoparts stores in my area can supply a new or reman WP IN 24hrs or less.

2) The "OEM" grade (claimed) very a great deal in price, I actually found one that was more expensive then the dealership ($389).

3 If you ask the seller (including the dealership) if they can do better than the quoted price, the answer is usually "yes", sometimes by as much as 25%.

3) There is some really cheap stuff out there if you want to gamble.

4) Warranties very a great deal, there is no standard, be sure to ask.


In the end, I went with a Duralast from Autozone. for the following reasons:
*OEM grade
*Not a reman
*Lifetime warranty (he specifically stated that if the bearing ever failed/leaked that it
would be replaced with a new unit free of charge.
* $159.00 including gasket (though I'm using a Porsche gasket from the dealer)

I'll report back if it turns out to be a POS...

Is it a composite or metal impeller?

I was told it was composite (not that I'm a zealot about either). I'll know more when I pick it up on Sunday...

The illustration shows what appears to be a composite impeller.

http://www.autozone.com/autozone/parts/Duralast-New-Water-Pump/2002-Porsche-Boxster/_/N-jhrnqZ9pd8f?itemIdentifier=867097_381126_0_

Any update? A new WP is in the very near future for me.

Thanks

Steve

Turned out to be metal... It appears to be a well made piece (made in Spain). I bought a Porsche (metal) gasket in lieu of using the paper gasket that came with the new pump. Fitment was perfect. no leaks, no noises it operates as it should.

The whole install cost me around $350, but that included $100 for the vacuum coolant fill tool.

Awesome, thank you!