Water Pumps

[Bullitt]

ok, i've done a few engine rebuilds in the past, but most times had replaced the water pump with the rebuild. only time i didn't was on my Fox body and the pump leaked after i put it back on (but didn't before).

what's the deal with a water pump? i've heard that the seals go bad if they've been run and then are removed... is there any truth to this?

 

[2nd Mustang]

I've moved water pumps from one motor to another without problems, but then the down time was just a few days.

 

[dennis112]

I've heard this too and was told to keep the pump submerged in a pan of antifreeze to prevent the seals from drying out. Seems to work.

 

[65ShelbyClone]

what's the deal with a water pump? i've heard that the seals go bad if they've been run and then are removed... is there any truth to this?

Yes and no. The seals can and do dry out, but the newer the pump, the longer it has to sit dry before anything goes bad. If you're concerned enough, submerge it in AF like dennis said.

 

[Bullitt]

thanks for the input. i've been told that if i just replace the backplate gasket that it'll be just fine.

 

[69Rcode_Mach1]

Weird I haven't had a problem with that yet.

 

[D.Hearne]

The pump on my "spare" 5.0 that I just reinstalled in my Ranger sat up for a year and a half and it's been fine so far. Never took it off the motor but did drain the coolant from it.