[Ray Barker]

I have an 02' Spirit 1100 and had started it up today for a ride & had noticed a small puddle,( about the size of a sliver dollar), of antifreeze. On close inspection I saw it dripping from the water pump. It's not much but I'm concerned if I should have the pump changed or if there's an o-ring that needs to be changed. The actual drip is off the front, lower bolt. I had checked this bolt as well as the drain bolt for tightness, both OK. Any suggestions?

 

[bullzeyet]

Ray,

The really cold temps have a lot to do with this. Where do you live??? ChiTown! Brrrr!!

The bolt maybe "shrinking" more than other parts in the water pump area. A "drop or two" is not anything to worry about at this time. BUT, do keep an eye on it as the temps climb...it should disappear. Keep an eye on the coolant level" as well. That's the fast answer for this problem and the cold temps.

Bullzeyet

 

[Ray Barker]

Bullzeyet,

Good point, I hadn't thought of the cold. It's still a little brisk here today so that might be all there's to it. I appreciate your response-thanks.

 

[Pavogg]

Expansion of Disimular Metals

The difference in expansion/contraction between aluminum and steel is a 17/1 ratio. In the cold a exact piece of aluminum will shink .017" to steel's .001".

That said, the bolt an the aluminum housing are very different in shape and mass, but, the aluminum is higly likely to shrink a greater amount.

More than likely you have a gasket/seal issue between the waterpump housing and the engine. Try loosening and retorqing the bolt, do not just try to tighten or check the torque on a bolt that has set for a long time, it is inaccurate at the torque levels involved. Worst case, and I do mean worst case, is R&R of the waterpump, which on most Shadows can not be done with the engine bolted down.

 

[Ray Barker]

Pavogg,

You have also raised some very good points to consider. I thank you for your response & hope for the easiest way to fix.