Coolant leaking at water pump area at only 63k miles!

[oldsAURORAmobile]

I guess that this is another symptom of fatigue due to aging not wear? Changed the radiator at 60k as it was leaking at the seams. Still looked brand new.

It's hard to tell exactly where the leak is, but it looks like it's at the housing perimeter as opposed to behind. I suppose even if it's just gaskets that I should change the pump anyway while I'm there?

What are your opinions on Duralast (AutoZone)? New, $46.99, limited lifetime warranty. They have the tool for loan, so I wouldn't need to buy one.

[Randy T.]

Coolant crossover gaskets will be bad if they have not been changed, there are 4 of them. At Autozone or parts stores they are called water pump gaskets.

[dogora]

After helping me find that crossover leak, now you are dealing with the same thing eh... I have replaced my gaskets and the water pump at 149000km. The gasket closest to the firewall and the water pump o-ring were both leaking. IMO water pump is easy to replace, but the gaskets are a time consuming job. If you are on a budget, you can just inspect the water pump, when you pull the casting out and check if there is any rust or oxidation on the pulley side of it... If it's looking good, just replace the seal on the thermostat side and you are done. Although, it is not going to be the biggest saving considering, if you will change the water pump in the future, you will have to buy another jug of antifreeze and another seal...

Btw, you can get away with just undoing the fuel line bracket at the top, but the darn wiring harness over the tranny is a nightmare, if you don't get it out of the way... Now go have some fun

[oldsAURORAmobile]

Replaced the pump yesterday. Everything went smoothly. Haven't lost a drop.

[dogora]

Glad to hear.