I am on I65 just south of Birmingham headed to Mobile. 1994 944T 178K

The low coolant sensor light came on and when I checked the waterpump was leaking. It appears to be coming out of the shaft seal behind the pulley. The weep hole is dry.

I stopped and bought a gallon of antifreeze and plan to head on south with an eye on the sensor light.

This is a new Hepu pump. Just replaced in September not more than 2000 miles ago. I noticed there was a black grease like substance floating in the coolant reservoir and indeed when I wiped some from top edge of the reservoir it was just like black grease. Could this be a seal that is decomposing for some reason?

I purchased a DuraLast pump at AutoZone in Birmingham and will reluctantly put it on the car if things get worse (and they are, the leak is fairly serious) I have tools- hopefully the bag I threw together before leaving has what I need.

Question 1. I have never replaced a waterpump on a Volvo without having the timing belt cover off. All the replacements have been preventative so I do them when I am replacing the timing belt. One waterpump every two timing belts. Is there good access to all the bolts on the waterpump with the cover in place?

Question 2. I will be getting back on the road again and be headed to Mobile (with stops for top ups of coolant). Assuming I make it all the way to Mobile is there anyone that can recommend a good independent shop that might work this waterpump change for me early this week. I am on vacation and don't relish the thought of changing out a waterpump in what looks like thunderstorms that lay in wait.

Thanks

Randy