944 Water Pump Help

[ColoradoSteve]

Hello All,
I purchased a 1983 944 a few months ago and have completely fallen in love with the car. I knew there were going to be some problems along the way; already replaced the alternator, fixed the power windows, replaced some switches, other minor stuff. The car overheated and I've pulled the thermostat ( a fun job ) and tested it. It appears to be working so I'm afraid it must be the water pump. I would feel better about changing the belts anyhow, but I'm wondering if I'm up to this job. I only have the Haynes manual, doesn't seem to be adequate, in fact they warn the 'home mechanic' not to attempt it. Anybody know where I can find more detailed instructions? Also, I know I'm lacking certain tools, what do I need? Am I crazy to attempt this? I really like this car and I don't want to pay $1000. or more in labor costs, help!
Steve

[bobp53916]

Nice looking car... Alot of useful information here: www.clarks-garage.com
Everythings in alphabetical order, look under the garage shop manual and you will find a good write up on the procedure. Also tells you all the tools you will need to do the job...



Bob

[ColoradoSteve]

Thanks, Bob, I'm thinking I'll give it a try.
Steve

[DMRK]

Welcome to the forum!
Its nice to see another colorado member. There are a few of us in Colorado on here. From what you have done to the car so far it seems that you are up to the job. Not sure if it will fix your problem but if you dont know the last time it was done you want to do it anyway or it will cost you alot later. Between clarks garage and this forum you can get it done. Nice looking car, hope to see you on the road.

[Slam]

There's a lot you can do before changing the pump, unless you're determined to change the timing belts (which you should do if you're not sure when they were last done). Has the cooling system been bled properly? Do the fans work as and when they're supposed to? Is the dash gauge even reading corrrectly? Just off the top of my head.

Welcome to the board! The early cars are the better casr in so many ways...

Good luck!

[ColoradoSteve]

Don't know much history about the car; just took a chance based on the test drive and looks ( kinda like meeting a woman LOL) so it's probably a good idea to change the belts. I think the temperature gauge is accurate and I lost coolant ( I think) from the overflow. I only paid $2700 for the car, so I don't mind putting a little money into it. It is much more car than I expected being as old as it is. And the chicks really dig it! I'm ready to go to work, thanks for all your help!
Steve

[Techno Duck]

Job is do-able at home if you are a reasonably competent home mechanic and have a decent set of tools. There are a few specialty tools involved but you can purchase alternatives (cheaper, and just as good) from Arnnworx.com . Its no different from doing a waterpump on any domestic or Japanese car, its nothing that might be unfamiliar than like working on a flat-6 for the first time.

The factory manual calls for a $500 tensioning gauge to properly tension the timing belt. Arnnworx makes a nice alternative to the expensive tool for a pretty reasonable price. Consider it an investment if you plan on keeping the car for any length of time.

There are a number of people on Rennlist aswell that are in Colorado who may be able to help you with the belt job.

[onZedge]

Make sure the radiator and A/C condenser are clear of road debris an that the fins are not flattened. If the car sat for a long while before you bought it, the inside of the radiator might be fouled with mineral deposits. These things are often overlooked. In any case, change the timing/balance belts if they are more than three years old regardless of mileage. The water pump causes overheating problems ONLY when the impeller fails due to severe corrosion (very unlikely, but it can happen) or mechanical damage (also very unlikely). A broken pulley is also a possibility, but I think other bad things would have happened by now if that was the case.