New SHO owner! Need to replace the Water Pump

[awb85]

Hi everyone!

I just bought my first SHO, 1990 White w/ blk. leather interior. I've replaced one muffler, the three e-brake cables, and I'll be taking a look at the fuel pump (have a slight leak).
Recently I noticed a burning coolant smell while my dad was in the car. Toady after school I decided I'd take a look — sure enough, a dripping water pump — the coolant is landing on the exhaust, which explains the burning part.
I've read several topics about replacing the water pump. And am thinking of maybe borrowing an air powered impact wrench for getting the crank shaft nut off.

Any suggestions out there?!

 

[fricker66]

There have been several crankshaft bolts that refuse to move even with an impact gun. The starter "bump" method has proven to be very effective with most crankshaft bolts.

While you're in there, you might as well replace the timing belt and CPS as they will not be difficult to access at that point. A front main seal is also another item to consider when doing this work.

Welcome to the Forum, enjoy your 90 SHO!

<small>[ January 05, 2004, 04:14 PM: Message edited by: fricker66 ]</small>

 

[SHOoff89]

As long as it is going to be apart for the water pump, you might as well do the CPS, timing belt and the Crank seal. I didn't do the crank seal the first 60k I performed, and less than three months later I was taking it all apart again. I have yet to do the water pump though, so I am on borrowed time until it goes and I have to do it all over again. At least I have had a little practice now.

 

[awb85]

Thanks for the input, I'm thinking about performing all four tasks.
My car still has 10k before it hits 120k, the 60k tuneup. I'm not sure how much I should (want to) do right now.

Should I do some of the tuneup 10k early?

 

[AutoSHO]

awb85:
Thanks for the input, I'm thinking about performing all four tasks.
My car still has 10k before it hits 120k, the 60k tuneup. I'm not sure how much I should (want to) do right now.

Should I do some of the tuneup 10k early?

Unless you like doing the same work twice, then yes, by all means do it now. You have to remove the Timing belt anyways to do the Water pump.

If the WP is leaking it is just a matter of time before the car starts randomly stalling because of coolant dripping on the CPS (Crank Position Sensor) only to restart ten minutes later.

The Front main is not too difficult to do.

 

[fricker66]

The front end work you are looking at doing does not get in the "tune up" work which is associated with the top end work. From previous experiences, if you're in there at 110k you might as well replace the parts you can afford to do at this time. I believe the front main seal runs about $7 at most auto stores. The time required to replace that at a later date is much much more costly.

The plugs/wires on the top end of the engine are more of a tune up item. If they are original, better plan on replacing them soon. It all depends on the previous history of your car. Given it's a 1990 there are probably a lot of wear items that will need to be replaced shortly.

 

[awb85]

Thanks guys. I guess I know what I'll be doing this weekend (hehe), I'm gonna call about parts tomarrow. I'll send word when I am done!!

 

[93EmeraldMTX]

replace everything, youll be glad you did. the seal is cheap and easy, the CPS is pretty easy too, and you're already torn down to there do the water pump. you have to take the timing belt off to do the water pump.

as for prices, the CPS will run you about 90, the timing belt 35, water pump about 40, main seal about 5 i think.

go here for good prices:

http://www.shoforum.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=17;t=005394

 

[projectSHO89]

You can buy two CPSs from AutoZone for $90.

Steve

 

[awb85]

...Well, I went out and bought the CPS and an oil filter from Auto Zone ($55)

I'm going to get a rebuilt WP and 3 belts (should I not replace the accessory belts?) from NAPA. And the belts are Gates.


I really appreciate all your guys input. This place is GREAT!!!

 

[fricker66]

awb85:
This place is GREAT!!!

I'd agree with you. This place has definitely saved me money and frustration.

If you're not sure of the age of the accessory belts, why not change them! Good time to make that replacement as well.