Ooops, water everywhere......

[grand-one]

I took my 4.0 Chimaera out for a run, and after stopping at traffic lights had some steam coming out from the bonnet vents. I thought it was just from water from puddles hitting the exhaust, but as it continued for a little while I decided to pull over and take a look.

It appears that there is a leak from the water pump, but not from the gasket. There is a small neat hole about 5mm across right at the front of the water pump where the spindle exits at the front, with coolant pishing out! Im guessing the bearings have gone and worn through? The engine has done 86k and is mostly original but find it unusual to have a hole in the pump itself.

Most TVR parts shops quote circa £75 for a new pump, but there are Range Rover P38 V8 pumps to be had for about £30. Question is are they the same pump or did TVR use a particular version? Car is a 4.0 Serpentine engine. Any ideas what mix of coolant to water ratio is right once its replaced?

Thanks in advance......

[Simon says]

Most water pumps have that vent hole and when the gland seal fails that usually the point of coolant loss, i would use 40/50 % antifreeze/coolant, TVR did not use a bespoke pump try someone like Famous Four they can help you with a suitable replacement. Don't forget bleed the system carefully when you have fitted the pump.

Edited by Simon says on Sunday 15th July 10:57

[s6otty]

Mines gone the same way, but it's been standing a good few years, so dont think that would have helped!

Mines a 94 preserp, and the QH Part Number is QCP2614 (Rover - STC483) if it helps!

Scott

[Motik]

As already said this hole is common in water pumps, it prevents the water from staying in the bearing and making it rust and seize up once the seal starts leaking.

[debaron]

Also there was a thread on this the other day - I believe one or more of the water pump bolts go into the water jacket in the block and if not well sealed can leak.

Worth a bit of blue Hylomar or similar on the pump bolts for peace of mind.


R

[grand-one]

Managed to fit a brand new water pump and gasket for the grand total of £28. Took the car for a spin to check coolant temperatures and managed to lose one of the bolts holding the pulley to the water pump! Doh! Anyone know where I can source one replacement bolt........

[Simon says]

Nothing special M8 15mm thread length approx just take one of the old ones to the shop to match up