Changed water pump, now leaks!!!

[pauld]

I changed the water pump on my '81, there is a leak that seams to be coming from the passenger side top bolt. It doesn't seem to be comig from the gasket seal where the pump meets the engine block, the water definately seems to be comng from arounf the top bolt hole. Is this possible and what is the fix to resolve it.

Getting fed up now!!! please help!!

 

[vette-dude]

Sounds like you may have some corrosion around the threaded bolt or the threads in the block. Drain radiator and remove the bolt. Wire brush the threads and blow out the threads in the block, ( no need to remove W/P). Two methods to fix are use Silicone on the threads of the bolt or use teflon tape on the threads before re-installing the bolt. This bolt hole opens up into the waterjacket and normally the threads are tight enough to seal but you may have some worn threads and need to use a sealant. This should be a 3/8 NC bolt by the way. You sure you didn't substitute a metric by accident?? (Just Kidding!!) Good luck.

Randy

PS: Make sure you did not miss the hole in the gskt when you installed the W/P.

 

[pauld]

Thanks Randy, will look at that and use the silicone.

Thanks again, Paul.

 

[SwaveDave]

For a sealant, ive had very good luck with Teflon Pipe Dope (paste). Its white in color and available at most hardware stores.

 

[clar2001]

Your gasket is leaking and pushing water out,try sealing the bolt if that doesen't work you will need to redo your gasket ...

 

[JohnZ]

All four water pump bolts require non-hardening thread sealer; they protrude into the water jacket, and will usually leak if you don't use sealer (just like head bolts).

 

[pauld]

Thanks guys, I used silicon on the bolts and that has cured the problem, thanks again for the help and advice. I'm off out to cruise around in the sun now!!:cool :cool

 

[Scooter76]

Glad that you got the problem fixed. I was going to suggest running a tap through the holes to clean up any rust that may give the coolant a way to seep out.