Water pump squeak

[Majorbloodnock]

Hi all

I wondered if I could have the opinons and experience from others on this...... I have a sqeaky bearing on my water pump - more noticeable on tick over - I just wondered if others have the same thing? And whether they took action, or if most of the Bongos have this and it doesn't always lead to further problems? I'm also wondering whether the water pump can be reconditioned and what sort of money this would be? I'm thinking of looking out for a S/hand one and getting it reconditioned if poss.

I guess the water system horror stories can make you a bit paranoid!

[helen&tony]

Hi Major
If it's not the belts, try a bit of water-soluble machining oil....a friend of mine cured a squeaky pump bearing by putting some in with the coolant....it works a treat!!!
Cheers
Helen

[mikeonb4c]

Hi Major
If it's not the belts, try a bit of water-soluble machining oil....a friend of mine cured a squeaky pump bearing by putting some in with the coolant....it works a treat!!!
Cheers
Helen

Wow H&T - interesting tip - never heard of that - must look it up. Hope it doesn't cause any increased risk of gunging by emulsifying with the coolant - will check that out too

PS - already found this http://www.shell.com/home/content/my-en ... _0612.html

PPS - Just emailed them this question:

Hello, I wonder if you can help me. I'm enquiring on behalf of the 5000 members of my club. We've received a suggestion that putting an amount of Water soluble machining fluids into the vehicle coolant system will solve squeaky water pump bearing problems (and presumably prolong beaqring life in any event). What I'm trying to find out is whether using this additive would carry any risk of clogging the coolant system, perhaps through emulsion separation, foaming, or other cause. My others questions are (1) which fluid would you recommend as most suitable (cast iron block, alloy head) and (2) what min % of oil would be likely to be effective.

Hoping you can help and thanks.

Mike

[helen&tony]

Hi Mike
You and I both remember when you had to apply grease at the water pump grease nipple, and it was just after they stopped putting grease nipples on the pump that that trick of putting cutting oil in came into being....so that was years ago...I presume it still works....the bearing gets little lubrication from the coolant, and in my own mind it can reduce the bearing life, despite what manufacturers say....anyway, I can't imagine it causing problems, as i've subsequently heard of others doing it. I would not hazard a guess on how much to add, or whether a modern radiator has smaller cooling tubes, but I would give it a go...it will certainly be interesting to hear the reply to your e-mail
Cheers
Helen