Water pump
The water pump, also known as the coolant pump, is the most important part of the engine's cooling system . The car water pump is driven by the auxiliary belt and its job is to regulate the coolant flow throughout the engine and cooling system. By pumping the coolant around, the engine is prevented from overheating. However, as the water pump has a hard task, this car part can also break down as it wears a lot. For example, the pump may leak. Is the pump leaking? Then it is time to replace it as quickly as possible. But how do you find out that your water pump is leaking? And how do you replace it?
Symptoms water pump failure
The water pump is an essential part of the cooling system of your car. The coolant pump has as the task to pump the coolant throughout the engine, so the engine will not overheat. Appears it to be broken? Then you can risk an overheated engine. There are a few symptoms of a failing water pump that you can recognize. Many coolant pumps have a so-called leaking hole. This is a location where the leak can be recognized. If the pump is leaking, you will find coolant here. A leaking water pump can also be recognized by drops or traces of leakage on or around the housing.
Another symptom that shows that the water pump needs to be replaced, is rust or corrosion on the housing. Mechanical damage will also prevent the pump from working properly. Therefore, we advise you to check the pump regularly for any leaks and damages. A car water pump has a reasonably expected minimum lifespan of 100.000 km. If you come close to this number of kilometres, we recommend that you check the pump. A worn-out water pump can cause serious damage to your car?s engine. The costs for a broken engine are much higher than having the water pump replaced on time.
Water pump replacement
Have you discovered a leak or damage? Then it is time to replace the water pump. A water pump replacement is something you can do yourself. However, it depends on your car how easily you can access the pump. In some cars, the pump is built in further, making it difficult to reach. If this is the case, it is often recommended replacing the timing belt and water pump at the same time. The timing belt can also be affected in the case of a leaking water pump.
Replacing the water pump is relatively easy and works as follows; loosen the bolts and remove the pump. Before you remove the pump, you will have to place a drain tray under your car. This way, the remaining coolant, which is still inside the pump, can easily be collected. Then remove the old gasket or old sealant residue and clean the mounting surface.
After you have removed the pump, you will also have to replace the gaskets and seals. If you have installed the new water pump, it is important that the auxiliary belt is properly tensioned. Make sure that you do not over tighten it, the seal of the pump can be overloaded. Also, do not re-use the old coolant, but refill the cooling system with new coolant.
Buying a water pump
You can buy a water pump quick and easy at Winparts. Enter your number plate and the suitable products for your car will be displayed. Then you only have to choose your favourite brand such as; Elring , SKF , FEBI or Behr Hella . At Winparts you will also find timing belt kits , these sets are equipped with a timing belt and a water pump. Of course, separate timing belts are also available.
