Time for a new water pump?

[at1212b]

I recently got the rad replaced on my 89 9c1 with the 350. It has been running hot lately (above 220, will go down then back up - used to stay at around 190 degree).

I noticed there was pretty big leak of coolant (underneath the engine) and I had to keep adding coolant in the resevoir to ensure it didn't over heat. I haven't had to time to thoroughly see (esp in the dark) where the source of the problem is, but seems to be leaking somewhere nearer to the front right. Is this possibly a leak in a hose? Or a new water pump likely needed?

[NocturnalCreations]

could be either to make it run hotter. If necessary clean the front of the motor to get a good look. without seeing myself I couldn't tell you for sure. just because the water pump may be leaking doesn't mean its bad, could just need a new gasket. The lack of coolant alone will make it run hotter. Also air car get trapped in the cooling system because of a leak and have the same results.

thoroughly check the motor before you just start buying parts. Some places wont take returns if you already installed the part.

If your thermostat opens too late it'll it will run a little hotter and maybe force coolant out of an already leaky spot.

and check the radiator for leaks too. All the welds, fins and where the hoses go into it. Coolant can run on the under side of hoses and other stuff. Where you see it dripping may not be the actual spot where the leak is.

Good luck

[GreyGoose006]

good news is that water pumps are pretty cheap if i remember correctly from when i did mine. shop around and get a good deal.

also, you might consider using new hoses and sealing them properly.

if the waterpump is bad, you should see coolant coming out of the weep-holes on the top and bottom of the water pump.

you can also check it by removing the fan and belts and spinning it with the engine off.
it should spin without resistance, but not freely.
basically it should stop spinning about a half a turn or so after you stop spinning it