water pump flow?

[techspy]

Can anyone tell me the best way to determine if the waterpump on an S4 is flowing at the correct capacity? Also, how hard is it to replace the waterpump with the engine in the vehicle?

[JK1]

TS, I've never seen any posted flow rates for the water pump but they may exist. Is is leaking? Every one I've ever seen that was on it's way out or gone will leak from the weep hole. Due to the fairly simple design of the wp I would think it would be unlikely to be the source of your problem unless you have a leak. I saw one recently with the impellor covered with corrosion from poor maintenance but it was still moving coolant and the car was not running above normal.

If you've got poor flow, the problem is probably a restriction somewhere else in the system with the thermostat or radiator being the most likely culprits.

As for replacing the wp, it's not overly complicated but as is typical with our cars, limited access is the biggest obstacle. On a scale of 1-10 I'd rate it a 7. Access to a lift would make it much easier.

Cheers,

[GKP]

Nine out of ten cooling issues with the Esprit are down to a blocked or very poor condition radiator.

[sanj]

I helped a buddy replace his waterpump with the car up on jackstands. You will be replacing the timing belt at the same time, as the aux pulley needs to come off to gain access to one of the waterpump bolts. An extra set of hands will come in handy.

[LotusSE89]

I've replaced mine a good 6 times with the engine in place on jackstands....

BTW it's easier if you also remove the heat shields and vacuum pump. Makes it sooooo much easier.