Water Pump Cleaning and Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Chevrolet Corvette. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
- Remove the old gasket from the water pump sealing surfaces. Refer to REPLACING ENGINE GASKETS .
- Clean all dirt and debris from the water pump housing.
- Inspect the water pump for the following:
- Gasket sealing surfaces for excessive scratches or gouging
- Hose sealing surfaces for scratches or gouging
- Restrictions within the internal coolant passages
- Excessive side-to-side play in the pulley shaft
- A loose belt pulley or a pulley with excessive wear or scoring on the belt tracking area
- Leakage at the water outlet housing or rear cover gasket
- Leakage at the water pump vent hole
A stain around the vent hole is acceptable. If leakage occurs, such as dripping, with the engine running and the cooling system pressurized, replace the water pump.