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Water pump failure

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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 03:42 PM
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Default Water pump failure

The dealership says that my water pump is leaking... $900 to fix? Is this a simple DIY fix? I would much rather just do it at home and save the money. What are the symptoms of a water pump failure? The guy said my engine smells like coolant but I think that's because I swapped throttle bodies a day before and leaked some coolant on the belts,etc. (which may explain the squeaking too). What do you guys think?
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 03:45 PM
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Liquids on the belts can cause squeaks. Overheating can be one symptom of a water pump failure. Nothing I would skimp out on. I would just replace the unit. I'd like that extra assurance myself. Good luck.

-Alex
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 03:51 PM
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Should be able to see it leaking from the weephole, and getting on belt. It is a pretty easy DIY. Water pump is probably 200-300 bucks.
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 04:54 PM
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I spilled coolant on the belts when I cleaned my TB... even GM agreed that could be the problem. They said to just check the coolant level and if it isn't dropping then that's it. Sound right?
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 04:54 PM
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Hi There;
Have a good look around the radiator,hoses & the pump w/hole & see if you can locate it. If not have it pressure tested.
robsc501
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 04:56 PM
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Originally Posted by USN32
I spilled coolant on the belts when I cleaned my TB... even GM agreed that could be the problem. They said to just check the coolant level and if it isn't dropping then that's it. Sound right?
Sounds about right, If it is leaking you will see it.
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 07:17 PM
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Screw the dealership !! $900 .. WTF!!

If your water pump is failing your engine will overheat.
fix it by yourself if you can but take it to an aftermarket shop its really not hard to install a new one

I had mine fixed and replaced and it all cost me less than $400.00

The dealership .....
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 08:57 PM
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Couple of weeks ago I had a coolant leak from the pump area. Brought it home and checked the forum. (required) Found several post about pumps leaking and some that didn't. Pulled mine off and found a gasket failed. Fixe for about $15. If I can help pm me.
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 09:08 PM
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This car has one of the easiest water pumps to replace, I kid you not. I think it is easier that my '67 Chevy 6 cylinder pick up truck! Mine started loosing coolant and I finally figured the water pump shaft was wore enough that it was leaking there. I bought a new pump at NAPA and a new thermostat and I think it was less than $200. While you are doing it you might as well put new hoses and belts on too.
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Old Oct 12, 2009 | 11:07 PM
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Originally Posted by USN32
I spilled coolant on the belts when I cleaned my TB... even GM agreed that could be the problem. They said to just check the coolant level and if it isn't dropping then that's it. Sound right?
Originally Posted by Mr.Bill
Sounds about right, If it is leaking you will see it.
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Old Oct 13, 2009 | 12:49 AM
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For $900 I'll take a day off work, fly to Texas and install a new waterpump on your car for you while you watch.


Jeesh!!
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Old Oct 13, 2009 | 09:38 AM
  #12  
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Sounds like you dont have a leak at all.Prob just some coolant from your by pass mod evaporating off.
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Old Oct 13, 2009 | 11:17 PM
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If you have an early vette the worst part will be scraping the old gasket off! The new gasket style is way more user friendly!
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Old Oct 13, 2009 | 11:27 PM
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If the engine overheats it will blow the head gasket. But the LS1 is made really well, it is designed to take some serious overheating.
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