HELP! Engine keeps overheating!

[Fierdon]

My engine overheated the other day. I got Don's to flush out the radiator and fill it with new coolant. Now, on my way back to work it overheated again. Could it be that the water pump went out? If so, how much is it and how easy is it to install? Thanks in advance.

[speedy-v6-camaro]

Could be the thermostat....but usually when the water pump goes it starts leaking coolant.

[Fierdon]

Well, the car does give off a sweet smell. Dang, every time I get something fixed something else breaks.

[speedy-v6-camaro]

Look for a leak from a hole on the water pump. If not it sounds like your thermostat is sticking.

[Fierdon]

Stupid question: Where is the water pump? Sorry to sound so stupid.

[96firebird311]

Originally posted by Fierdon:
Stupid question: Where is the water pump? Sorry to sound so stupid.

It's the pulley that's in the center. About 2" in diameter and held on by 4 or 5 small bolts. The whole pump is about twice the size of your hand. Right up front. Can't miss it.

I had my waterpump start leaking on me a few months ago. Might have just needed a new gasket. But after several overheats, power flush and fill and a new thermo, I just wanted the problem fixed. I think I paid like $40 for the new pump and like $5 for the new gasket. Very easy to replace. Do a search on here for more info. But some pointers are to let the engine cool before you start. Coolant can stay damn hot for a while. Also, be sure to scrap off EVERY SHRED of the old gasket. Again, make sure the engine in cool, and use a razor blade. Wipe the area with a wet rag to darken the old pieces of gasket. Makes things a lot easier to see. Like I said, it's pretty easy. Take off belt. Remove the 4 or 5 bolts to remove the pulley. Remove 5 or 6 bolts on the waterpump and give it a good strike to loosen it from the block. (it will be tight) Scrap gasket. Put on new one and reverse the process. Be sure to fill with new coolant that you have no doubt lost. Bam. You're done. [img]smile.gif[/img]