I have a 02 Zo6 with about 20K. I have noticed a small amount of coolant on the front spring pooling. After a search I found other have had the same thing. I think it is the water pump. Others have said it was only the gasket. How big of a job is it to change? I would assume I would put a new pump on if I take the time to get it off and not just replace gasket. Thanks in advance.

 

If your going to take off the pump, replace it. IMHO

 

Water pumps often have a weep hole under them, leaking here forewarns later failure. I would imagine it is hard to see the weep hole on a C5. Just make sure it is not a loose clamp issue, water can flow along items a long way, check all hoses and clamps. Look for white stains (evidence of leaks). 20,000 miles is low for a water pump failure. I would hate to replace a water pump if it is just a loose clamp or hose failure !

Oh, if you do replace the water pump, be sure to get ALL of the old gasket off the engine, this is often the hardest part, but if you don't you risk another leak.

Here is the water pump replacement from the shop manual. If you need pictures, PM me your Email address.

Document ID# 642894
2002 Chevrolet Corvette


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Water Pump Replacement
Removal Procedure




Remove the air cleaner intake duct.
Remove the accessory drive belt. Refer to Drive Belt Replacement - Accessory in Engine Mechanical - 5.7L.
Drain the cooling system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System .



Reposition the inlet and outlet hose clamps at the water pump.
Remove the inlet and outlet hoses from the water pump.



Reposition the heater inlet and surge tank outlet hose clamps at the water pump.
Remove the heater inlet and surge tank outlet hoses from the water pump.



Remove the water pump bolts.



Remove the water pump.
Remove the water pump gaskets.
Clean and inspect the water pump. Refer to Water Pump Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical - 5.7L Unit Repair.
Installation Procedure




Install the water pump and gaskets to the engine block.




Notice
Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.


Install the water pump bolts. Tighten
Tighten the water pump bolts a first pass to 15 N·m (11 lb ft).
Tighten the water pump bolts a final pass to 30 N·m (22 lb ft).




Install the heater inlet and surge tank outlet hoses to the water pump.
Position the heater inlet and surge tank outlet hose clamps at the water pump.



Install the inlet and outlet hoses to the water pump.
Position the inlet and outlet hose clamps at the water pump.
Install the accessory drive belt. Refer to Drive Belt Replacement - Accessory in Engine Mechanical - 5.7L.
Fill the cooling system. Refer to Draining and Filling Cooling System .



Install the air cleaner intake duct.

 

I just found a similar small leak, coolant dripping off the thermo housing - turned out to be just the big hose clamp on the thermo outlet had weakened, Check that first for sure, 5 minute fix for less than a dollar!!!!

good luck,
DG

 

Thanks

 

I had to replaced my water pump not long after I bought the car. It really is one of the easier things to change under the hood on one of these cars. I say go for it and save yourself some bucks from a shop or dealer.

A couple of good points. Replace fluid with Dex Cool. Don't use the yellow stuff. The replacement gasket should be metal with rubber rings (beats the hell out of the OE paper gaskets). Socket extension for your ratchet is a must to save skin on the old knuckles.

May the force be with you.