Water pump

[tistanle]

My water pump was just replaced 2 years ago. I noticed the other day that it was leaking coolant. It appears to be leaking because the gasket is bad. I was wondering, should I just replace the gasket or the whole water pump?

 

[ltd02]

If I was absolutely certain it was just the gasket then I'd just replace it. Was the replacement a Mopar? Just make sure it isn't coming from the weep hole. If it is, the pump won't last long.

 

[tistanle]

It was replaced 2 years ago by a dodge garage. It's not leaking through the weep hole

 

[ltd02]

I'd just change the gasket then.

 

[tistanle]

Getting ready to tackle the heater core as well. Any tips?

 

[ltd02]

Getting ready to tackle the heater core as well. Any tips?

Ouch, haven't tackled that one. I've heard it's a PITA. Whole dash has to come out and AC evacuated if my memory is correct. Good luck and keep us posted on the progress. Maybe someone out there has some words of wisdom for you.

 

[jeepguy4276]

Heater core is a pita because there are so many screws, bolts, nuts, and pieces. They work isn't that hard really. Just take your time and make sure all the fasteners and hoses go where they should so you don't end up with rattles.

 

[69BahamaYellow]

I just replaced the water pump on my 2002 3.7L V6. This is a surprisingly easy job. Only took about 15 minutes. Just use a big pan to catch all the antifreeze that drains out; then you can put a coffee filter in a big funnel to strain out any dirt or impurities when you put it back in. I did not use any RTV sealer on the gasket, and it does not leak, but the sealing surfaces on the pump and the timing chain housing were shiny and clean on mine. If your's is corroded, that's probably what's causing the leak, so you'll need to use RTV silicone sealer on the gasket to stop it.

I should note that I replaced my pump because the plastic impeller was slipping on the pump shaft (causing intermittent overheating). The bearings were fine, and it was not leaking. I found out this was a fairly common failure mode on these pumps, so test yours when you replace the gasket...

 

[Hedsic]

List of downloadable service manuals etc if that helps at all.

Index of /manuals/Jeep/KJ

 

[mightybeet]

im starting to get a leak at the gasket. this last one i used RTV. going to try and torque it down again to see if it stops... stupid waterpumps.