The water pump on my 85 series 3 was leaking quite a bit recently but started leaking profusely after i tightened the power steering pump tensioner which is fed from same belt. I have removed the pump and cant see anything obviously wrong. Should i try new gaskets first and refit or can i check the pump to see is it gone then order a new one? Cheers jj.

 

If it was leaking at all, and got worse with the belt tighten, then I reckon the pump is toast.

The fact it is off the engine now and that is not a simple task. I would fit a rebuilt unit, with new gaskets of course, and be done with it.

I use David Manners in the UK, no issues my end.

 

Yes it seems to have been leaking from a small hole near the front of the housing and not from where the gasket seals. Thats judging by the corrosion traces. Is this hole designed to indicate failure of the pump internals as it looks factory made and not corrosion made?

 

You sir are RIGHT.

 

Off to the motor factors i go. Thanks for the info!

 

Yeah.

When the bushings go, the shaft wobbles and the seal is done for. in olden days, a light emulsified oil was used when antifreeze was not necessary. The lubricated seals and bushings and life was extended. Now modern antifreeze does have a lube and all is well as long as the coolant is fresh. But, nothing is forever, coolant, seals or bushings. Therefore, as Grant says, it is ver. Get a reconditioned pump from a reliable source. Have a good look at the impeller. if it is badly corroded, the clearances will be excessive and the pumps ability to move water will suffer. Too much and the car will over heat.

Carl