Inspection
3.8L ENGINE
Replace the water pump if it has any of the following defects.
1. Damage or cracks on the pump body.
2. Coolant leaks; this will be evident by a wet stream of coolant running down the pump body and components below. A thin stain below the weep hole reservoir slot is considered normal operation.
3. Impeller rubs inside of chain case cover.
4. Excessively loose or rough turning bearing.
NOTE: A weepage stain that is black, brown, or grey is considered normal, if it is dry. If the weep appears wet; pressure test the cooling system at 103 - 124 kPa (15 - 18 psi) and observe the weep area. If weep area remains unchanged, do not replace the water pump for this condition. Replace the water pump, if a steady flow of engine coolant is evident from the weep hole/reservoir slot (shaft seal failure). Be sure to perform a thorough analysis before replacing water pump.