2/29/2024 0 Comments Water pump leak![]() This morning I finally put in a coolant dye, and less than 10 miles later I got the coolant level low warning light and after stopping, immediately noticed brightly dyed coolant dripping onto the road.Īfter getting it towed back and up on ramps, I noticed a slow coolant drip formed at the base of the water pump impeller housing, with the trickle of coolant coming from somewhere up and behind the water pump assembly. To prevent water pump failures, consumers should be educated about the importance of periodically draining and flushing the coolant in their cooling system.It first started with a very slow leak that didn't form any coolant puddles under the car nor were there any signs of coolant sprayed anywhere within the engine compartment, so I topped every week or so waiting for some time I could thoroughly troubleshoot the system. Most of the time, water pump failure is a result of insufficient maintenance. While it’s possible for a water pump to fail from normal wear, it’s not very common (at least if we’re talking about OEM quality water pumps). Prevent Water Pump Problems With Rigorous Maintenance The pump will begin to leak, the pump’s impellers will be corroded (thus reducing efficiency), or the seal between the block and the pump will be damaged and leaking. Unfortunately, corrosion only becomes detectable when the water pump requires repair. Corrosion often occurs when the fluid in the cooling system is not properly maintained, or when the fluid is replaced with a mix that includes tap water (distilled water should always be used when refilling cooling systems). ![]() Otherwise, it can damage the pump’s drive pulley and lead to premature bearing and/or casting failure.Īlthough harder to detect, corrosion kills a lot of water pumps. ![]() If a belt is over-tightened, it must be replaced and the tensioner reset. A failed belt means a non-operational water pump, which is as catastrophic as a broken water pump. If the belt isn’t sufficiently snug, it should be tightened to specification, and this tightness should be checked regularly. The belt should not be worn, cracked, or slipping. Regular visual inspections should include the belt that drives the water pump pulley (if applicable). ![]() In fact, many water pumps come with the drive pulley already installed. This will cause pump failure as well.įor these reasons, it’s recommended that the water pump drive pulley be replaced at the same time as the water pump itself. This reduces pump efficiency before eventually causing failure.Īdditionally, a wobbling drive pulley can cause the water pump’s impeller to become imbalanced. If the water pump’s drive pulley is vibrating, the pulley bearings will wear and eventually fail. Air pockets stuck in the engine blocks will also result in localized overheating of the engine block.Ī loose or wobbling drive pulley is another source of trouble. Excess air in the cooling system can lead to corrosion and/or a reduction in pump efficiency. While a seal that’s leaking coolant is bad, it’s often the air intake that’s worse. This seal can fail if it is improperly installed, if the vehicle isn’t operated for weeks at a time, or if the coolant becomes corrosive. It also keeps excess air from getting into the cooling system. The seal between the water pump housing and the engine block keeps coolant from leaking out of the engine.
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