C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Water Pump Replacement

Old May 11, 2022 | 08:41 PM
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Default Water Pump Replacement

A few questions to be asked. I purchased my 89 Corvette a few weeks ago after sitting for 8 years drove it around the block and noticed it was leaking coolant, a few days go by and I pressurize the system to see where the leak is coming from and it is leaking from the Weeping hole in the water pump. I ordered the new pump and start tearing into the car to get the pump out then prior to pulling the pump I spin the pump and it feels fine doesn't feel bad can hear the coolant moving so not sure if I really need to replace the water pump? My thoughts that the thermostat was stuck closed and that is why it leaked out the weep hole in the water pump when I pressurized the system.

Next thing I have to ask has anyone cut the A/C bracket so that you don't have to pull the fuel lines and fish the coolant line through?

Thanks in advance!

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Old May 11, 2022 | 09:07 PM
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If your water pump is leaking through the weep hole, it is shot. Don't cut your bracket.
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Old May 11, 2022 | 09:17 PM
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Originally Posted by 383vett
If your water pump is leaking through the weep hole, it is shot. Don't cut your bracket.
What he said
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Old May 12, 2022 | 01:45 PM
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What they said.
Do it right.
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Old May 12, 2022 | 02:21 PM
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Replace the WP, never ever cut that AC bracket.
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Old May 12, 2022 | 02:36 PM
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does the 88+ still have the secret ac bolt?
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Old May 12, 2022 | 03:55 PM
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Thank you everyone for responding, I just needed some feedback to ensure all the work to pull that bracket off wasn't all for nothing.

As for this secret AC bolt I'm not sure i know where this is located I just had 4 bolts to remove from the passenger side of the car.
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Old May 12, 2022 | 04:42 PM
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Originally Posted by Huffzz
Thank you everyone for responding, I just needed some feedback to ensure all the work to pull that bracket off wasn't all for nothing.

As for this secret AC bolt I'm not sure i know where this is located I just had 4 bolts to remove from the passenger side of the car.
that pretty much answers it then.
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Old May 13, 2022 | 01:53 AM
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It's been a long time since I've done a WP. But if you have to disconnect the fuel lines, then make sure you get the correct A/C Delco fuel orings to put new orings on. One thing I did was since the water pump gaskets are paper. I got some gasket sealant that's in a spray can. I think it was red in color. And I got some wire hangers to hang the gaskets. And I sprayed them down and let it dry or whatever before installing the water pump.

Also, when I have the fuel lines disconnected. I put sandwich bags over the top just to keep trash from getting into the lines.

But like others have said, if it's leaking out the weep hole, then it needs to be replaced. And I'd recommend getting a new water pump since it's such a pain in the butt to replace.
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