Waterpump rebuild?

[Rich H]

Hey all,

I figured while my car is in a bazillion bits I'd overhaul the waterpump.

Has anyone used the Lotus Bits rebuild kit? It's listed for an S3 HC engine but is this the same as my S4?

Or can I just buy seals and bearings seperately? Anything complicated in there?

Ta

Rich

[andydclements]

I think you'll find it's from the same supplier as a certain other well known non-genuine dealer would supply, so I'd doubt there would be any issues. The bearing and shaft are one unit so finding one exactly the same and then finding the seal that's exactly the same may be very time consuming.

I'm pretty sure it's the same kit for al 4 pots, with different clearance spec for very early engines.

[Rich H]

Thanks,

Lotus4s sent me a guide on how to do it and it looks like I'd need a press to do it properly. So I'll leave it for now...

It didn't leak before and if it does then I'll deal with it... Going to change the awkward bolt to a cap head just in case though!

Cheers

Rich.

[andydclements]

Very wise, the only reasons I see to change a waterpump that's not leaking are:

The car has been laid up for quite a while (years) and rust may have formed pressing into the seal.

The whole engine is being re-built with nearly all new / refurbed parts.

[Rich H]

It's been laid up for 2 years.... but I'm still going to leave it!

I take it the bolt swap is a good plan?

[andydclements]

Oh yes. You can remove the bolt with the engine in pace and cam belt in lace, but it's a pig of a job.

[Rich H]

[Rich H]

Well taht didn't last long WP is dripping form the weep hole and I forgot to fir the allen head bolt

Looks like I'll be looking for a refurbed pump and some time then

It was running so well too...

[andydclements]

Pretty much what can be expected, that's why it's best to use these cars regularly.

[Rich H]

Are there any other sources of rebuilt waterpumps other than SJ Sportscars I should be trying?

Thanks

Rich

[andydclements]

Obviously there's Lotusbits near Warwick, who you mentioned in the topic title.

[Rich H]

They don't have rebuilt waterpumps listed (That I could find!) only the rebuild kits, SJ have refurbs on exchange for ~£80.

[910Esprit]

I got one from Chris Neil a few years ago - Within striking distance of Preston - Would also be suprised if Pete 'I can fix anything' Musgrove (PNM) hasn't got one.

Steve

[Rich H]

Cool will try them both on Tuesday.

Going to be bored at work tomorrow - can't order more bits...