97 4.6L Water Pump Leak

[cixelsyd]

About 14 months ago I noticed a bit of antifreeze under my 97 4.6L. I took it into the rad shop as I had the rad and heater core replace a few years back and wanted to make sure it wasn't a problem with those. The pressure test indicated that the leak was coming from the water pump. The leak appears to be dependent on the outside temperature as I only notice coolant loss in the winter months. This winter the loss was more pronounced, but I have not noticed any further loss now that spring has arrived. Is this common to these vehicles? Should I just change the water pump anyways>

[kidzstang]

If it were me, and it ain't but if it was, I would change the water pump. The leak will progressively get worse and the water pump will ultimately fail spewing coolant through the relief hole. Most likely this will happen when you are all dressed up heading to a wedding or some fancy doings.

The job is easy and the part is cheap enough.

Originally Posted by cixelsyd

About 14 months ago I noticed a bit of antifreeze under my 97 4.6L. I took it into the rad shop as I had the rad and heater core replace a few years back and wanted to make sure it wasn't a problem with those. The pressure test indicated that the leak was coming from the water pump. The leak appears to be dependent on the outside temperature as I only notice coolant loss in the winter months.

This winter the loss was more pronounced, but I have not noticed any further loss now that spring has arrived.

Is this common to these vehicles?

Should I just change the water pump anyways>

[Papa Tiger]

Change the pump for sure and probably the thermostat as well and the hoses and belt. It's time and if you don't they will put you beside the road some lonely rainy night down the road fore sure.