Cooling System - Coolant Leak From Water Pump Plug
BULLETIN NO.: 02-T-83ISSUE DATE: November, 2002
CATEGORY TYPE: Engine-21
CATEGORY: Cooling
CORPORATION NO.: 02-06-02-010
SUBJECT:
Engine Coolant Leak from Coolant Pump Drain Plug
(Replace Drain Plug or Coolant Pump depending on Coolant Pump Date Code)
MODELS AFFECTED:
2003 ION built prior to VIN 3Z106230.
2003 VUE with 2.2L (L61) engine built between VIN 3S825399 and 3S832990.
CONDITION:
Some vehicles in the VIN range defined above may experience an engine coolant leak from the engine coolant pump drain plug.
CAUSE:
Damaged drain plug 0-ring seal due to machining variation in pump housing or contamination of 0-ring seal.
CORRECTION:
Replace coolant pump drain plug or coolant pump depending on coolant pump date code.
SERVICE PROCEDURE
1. Confirm that the source of the engine coolant leak is at the coolant pump drain plug.
2. Inspect the coolant pump date code stamped on lower mounting boss (as shown in Illustration).
3. If the date code stamped on the coolant pump is BETWEEN 08/28/02 and 09/21/02 (inclusive), there may be a sharp edge on the sealing surface that could cut the 0-ring. Replace coolant pump assembly using published service manual procedure.
4. If the date code stamped on the coolant pump is NOT BETWEEN 08/28/02 AND 09/21/02, the 0-ring seal on the drain plug may be oversized due to contamination during manufacturing. Replace the coolant pump drain plug ONLY.
IMPORTANT:
Lubricate the drain plug 0-ring seal with engine coolant prior to installation. The use of motor oil or other types of lubricants will cause the 0-ring to swell which may lead to future leakage.
5. After repair, refill engine cooling system and pressure test to confirm repair.
PARTS REQUIREMENTS:
CLAIM INFORMATION:
To receive credit for this repair during the warranty coverage period, submit a claim through the Saturn Dealer System for 33040 (Cock or Plug, Radiator Drain Replace), or J3480 (Pump and/or Gasket, Coolant Replace).
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