Well I finally found my main problem with coolant loss and over heating besides a leaky radiator... My water pump is leaking. I parked my car last night, about 6 hours later there was a big wet spot underneath the car. Check my coolant, it was low. Looked under the car, and it was dripping off the oil pan lower timing belt cover.

I replaced my timing belt and tensionor last year, but not the water pump. I used cheap AutoZone parts though. So I've compiled a list of parts to get from the dealer; Timing belt, tensionor, the two O-rings for the back water pipe, thermostat and gasket, all the coolant hoses on the back of the block and water pipe for the FITV, IACV, oil cooler, etc..

My question is can I reuse my old water pump and just get a new seal for it? What should I check on the water pump? I'm in a pinch for money and the $120 for the water pump will let me get a new radiator and all that.

Thanks.

 

if the pump is leaking its most likely coming from the weep hole on the pump, meaning the pump bearing/seal (not the seal to the engine) is going bad. the next thing that can/will happen is the pump may freeze and take the timing belt and possibly the engine with it.(ie bent valves).

recomendation: change the pump.

 

Oooh.. damn, I didn't even think of that. I guess I'm just going to replace it all.

 

yeah, its good peice of mind to do so.