Checking the operation of the water pump

Failure of the water pump can cause severe engine damage due to overheating.

There are two ways to check the operation of the water pump without removing it from the engine. If, as a result of one of them, the pump is found to be faulty, it should be replaced with a new one.

Water pumps are usually equipped with vents. In the event of a leak in the pump stuffing box, liquid will begin to ooze from this hole. In most cases, you will need to use a flashlight to locate this hole on the underside of the pump for signs of a leak.

A bad water pump bearing is usually indicated by a creaking sound at the front of the engine while it is running. A sign of pump shaft wear is the pulley beating up and down (with drive belt removed). Don't confuse a squeaking sound from a slipping drive belt with a squeaking sound that is a sign of worn pump bearings. Worn alternator bearings can also cause a creaking sound, but after removing the drive belts, it's easy enough to tell the difference.