Just about to replace my water pump - I have a very slight leak which only seems to occur when the engine is cold. Replacement is not OEM but made by Airtex which seems to have a good reputation and is guaranteed to be "to OEM quality (and is substantially cheaper). I appreciate that design of these pumps has changed over the years, but am slightly surprised that the "sealing area" where the gasket goes is not polished aluminium, but still slightly rough like the rest of the casting.
So - my question - is this normal and will it seal OK.

As always, advice from them that knows is much appreciated.
Cheers,
David.

 

That is normal per my experience with replacing a couple of them.

There should be a gasket of some kind that came with the pump, however. Metal to metal won't seal well.

 

I just installed an Airtex - came with a gasket - no leaks so far ...

 

Thanks for the reassurance. Yes - I got the gasket but am used to seeing shiny & perfectly flat "mating areas" and was a bit surprised that wasn't the case.
So - that's tomorrow's job. Doesn't look too hard, but it only takes one seized bolt to mess up an otherwise sunny day !
Cheers,
David.

 

See if this link helps

Link to water pump R&R JagRepair.com - Jaguar Repair Information Resource

 

I would recommend some rtv. I put some around my gasket when I replaced my water pump. Just added assurance