What do you think? Leaking Water Pump...

[hexhead]

I just noticed that my water pump is leaking and was wondering if it is okay for me to drive my car until my parts arrive from BMA?

I am planning to replace the water pump, gaskets, rad. hoses, and thermostat, do you recommend that I replace any other items while I have her apart? Except for the M60 Nikasil engine :)

TIA

[Mr Project]

Is the thermostat housing plastic on the M60? If so, you might consider replacing it like on the M50.

If it's been more than 60k since your last radiator replacement, you might consider replacing that while you're in there. The E32/38 740i guys consider that to be the replacement period.

Personally, if it's leaking enough that you have to add coolant more frequenly than once a week, I woudn't drive it. A leak can become severe pretty quickly in my experience, and that's not a car to be fooling around with the cooling system.

[KC Ron Carter]

the coolant is passing through a sealed bearing and now the coolant is washing what grease there was away.

The ball bearings will rust up.

That is why once they start to leak it is just a short time till there is a big bearing failure.

I have seen a needle point grease gun used to pump in grease that allowed it to run until there was time. If it does not leak it is good.

Later,

[hexhead]

Thanks for your help.

Based on KC's description, it sounds like I have milked her long enough. I already had to add coolant once. Currently she is at a slow but steady drip, and since I don't own a needle point grease gun I think it would behoove me to park her until the parts arrive.

As for the thermostat housing, I believe that you are correct Mr. Project. So, I will definitely look to purchase an Aftermarket version.

Also, a mechanic at the local BMW dealer claimed that my radiator was replaced not to long ago and since a new one costs over two hundred bucks, I will take their word and pass on that investment for now.

Again, Thanks!