I was changing my accessory belts a few days ago (badly cracked) and notcied a few things about my water pump. (Car has Electric cooling Fan)

There is no lateral play in the shaft
THere is about 1/16" of axial play in the shaft, (in & out)
The shaft does not spin freely, it makes a squeaky noise when I rotate it by hand. It sounds as if the shaft seals are squeaking on the shaft.

Should the pump shaft spin for a few revs after its given a good twist?

Before winter I am planning on replacing the radiator, Timing Belt, front seals, and possible tensioner. Something tells me I should replace the WP. I am thinking about purchasing the Volvo Unit.

Thoughts?

Matt

--
'82 DL - 150k, '93 945 - 96k

Well if you're going to do the timing belt, and seals.. do the pump at the same time whether it's bad or not. Minimal extra labor. Go for the Hepu pump, I got mine thru FCP Groton.

- alex

'85 244 Turbo

I'd do it. Ditto on the Hepu; I have them on both my Volvos and they're great. Try Ebay; there are a number of good sellers of Volvo parts there. Look for high feedback ratings. Even if no WPs for sale, ask them. They'll probably give you a good deal.

I replaced a WP last summer mainly just b/c I had all the stuff off the front of the motor for something else, didn't know the age of the WP, and figured I might as well do it while I was in there. I'm glad I did.

The closest I've found to the Volvo units are the HEPU pumps. I've had a ton of them; never a problem. No problems with GMB either, but I happen to be partial to the HEPU ones.

If you have any doubts about the pump, replace it. $40 is half the price of a tow... and that doesn't include parts to fix the actual problem once you get the thing home. My opinion.