How to Replace the Water Pump

This article mainly introduces what is a water pump, its working principle, when to replace it, whether the water pump problem affects safety, how to replace it by a professional engineer, and the precautions for replacement.

What is a pump and the way does it work?

The pump may be a belt or chain-driven engine accessory bolted to the engine above the crankshaft pulley. The pump housing has an impeller that circulates engine coolant through the cooling system passageways within the cylinder block and plate, on to the radiator, where the coolant temperature is reduced. . The lower temperature coolant then flows back to the water inlet on the engine and therefore the pump continues the cycle.

When to think about replacing the water pump:

Coolant leaks or overheating. The pump impeller shaft is supported by an impact. Eventually, the bearing or seal can wear and leak or damage the impeller. Many water pumps have to weep holes near the pump bearing. If you see significant leakage from that weep hole, it's time to exchange the pump.

Bearing roughness or noise. If the pump shaft doesn't turn smoothly or the pump is noisy, the bearing is excessively worn. Pump replacement is going to be necessary.

Timing belt replacement. In engines where the pump is driven by the timing belt, it's an honest idea to exchange the pump at an equivalent time the timing belt is replaced. The extensive work explains why it's always recommended to exchange the pump whenever the mechanic already has these components removed for regularly scheduled timing belt replacement.

How do mechanics replace the water pump?

The pump is typically bolted to the front of the engine. The replacement procedure will vary counting on whether the pump is driven by the timing belt, the serpentine belt, or chain.

On a chilly engine, the engine coolant is drained to A level below the pump.
Components that need removing to access the pump are removed, including the belt or chain that directly drives the pump.

The bolts holding the pump to the engine are removed and therefore the pump is pulled out.

The gasket surface must be cleaned and therefore the pump mounting surface inspected. a replacement gasket, rubber seal, or RTV sealant, as needed, is installed then the new pump. The bolts are torqued in sequence employing a calibrated inch-pound wrench.

For applications where the pump is driven by the timing belt, the timing belt must be removed. Typically, this needs the removal of the crankshaft pulley, timing belt covers, and timing belt tensioner. Once the new pump is installed, a new coolant is added back while bleeding the cooling system of any air. The engine is then run and delivered to normal operating temperature to see for leaks and ensure normal operating temperature.

Is it safe to drive with a pump problem?

No. Should the pump only leak a touch bit, you'll drive the car. However, a little leak could suddenly enlarge or the pump bearing might unexpectedly seize. Either circumstance would likely cause engine overheating. If a defective pump causes the overheating, it's not safe to drive due to the damage to the engine.

When replacing the pump confine mind:

It is best to put in a replacement cooling system thermostat once you install a replacement pump, especially if the thermostat is old or original.

Completely flushing the cooling system may be a good idea once you replace the pump. Flushing is often done before or after pump replacement.

The rest of the cooling system should be inspected too — particularly rubber hoses, which have a limited lifetime