coolant drip from the water pump shaft

[chicagojeff]

Now that I got the gilmer drive back together that drives the water pump and fan, I've noticed that there must be some droplets leaking out of the shaft, since there is sprayed coolant around the engine bay. It's not a big leak, I think just a few drops, but is this a sign of the dreaded imminent water pump failure? Or can this be tolerated and not necessarily a sign that the pump is going? Must be the seal on the shaft I suppose...thanks anyone who has experienced this. Jeff

[1964 S1]

Hi Jeff, it's starting to sound like the guy you bought the car from times his car sales perfectly. Make sure your belt is not too tight. If you're driving when it 's not real hot out, you can run with the radiator cap loose, the lack of pressure will make it leak less. As long as you watch your coolant level and the car doesn't start puking antifreeze, an occasional topping up may be all you need. Sometimes, and this is rare, they'll stop leaking when the crud in the passageways finds its way to the leak.

[rgh0]

If you have a continuous leak it will not belong before the innner bearing on the pump shaft corrodes and fails. Sraying some corrosion preventative up the drain hole will help it last a little longer.

Rohan

[Emma-Knight]

And don't forget to top up with antifreeze/water mix to avoid corrosion...