Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Inspection






3.3/3.8L ENGINE




Figure 1 Water Pump Inspection - 3.8L Engine


Replace the water pump if it has any of the following defects:

- Damage or cracks on the pump body.
- Coolant leaks; this will be evident by a wet stream of coolant running down the pump body and components below. A thin stain below the weep hole reservoir slot (Figure 1) is considered normal operation.
- Impeller rubs inside of chain case cover.
- Excessively loose or rough turning bearing.

NOTE: A weepage stain that is black, brown, or grey is considered normal, if it is dry. If the weep appears wet; pressure test the cooling system at 15-18 psi and observe the weep area. If weep area remains unchanged, do not replace the water pump for this condition. Replace the water pump, if a steady flow of engine coolant is evident from the weep hole/reservoir slot (Figure 1) (shaft seal failure). Be sure to perform a thorough analysis before replacing water pump.