Car Water Pumps

A car water pump is a device which facilitates the transfer of water from the radiator to the engine of the car in order to keep it cool. The design of car water pumps may vary according to different car models, but owing to the similarity in the basic functioning, most of these pumps have some similar physical traits. The pump, with two pipes - one going to the radiator with other going to the engine - is located behind the fan belt near the engine.

How Does a Car Water Pump Work?

Basically, these pumps work on centrifugal force. The centrifugal pump is driven by the belt connected to the crankshaft, which ensures that the pump functions when the engine is running. Owing to the centrifugal force involved in its functioning, the coolant fluid in it is sent outside and replaced by fluid which is being drawn from the center continuously. The inlet of the pump is located at the center in such a manner that the fluid coming from the car radiator hits the vanes of the pump. These vanes in turn send the coolant to the outer side of the pump from where it enters the engine and cools it. This stream of fluid enters the engine block, moves to the cylinder head, then to the radiator, and finally back to the water pump. The same cycle is repeated all over again as long as the car is running.

Installation Process

In some cars, the water pump can be easily accessed by using the basic tools in the car kit, while in other cars, car water pumps are located deep inside and one has to take the help of a professional to handle the situation. In most of the car models rolled out today, the water pump placement is quite tricky and hence one should rather take the help of a professional, than messing up things further. The price for the water pump may vary according to the area where you reside and your car model. In some cars, easy access to the water pumps means you don't have to touch the engine at all, but in some models, like the 4 cylinder engine, the front of the motor has to be removed, which may be time-consuming as well as a bit costly. However, replacement of the water pump is done on an average after 90,000 miles, meaning you will have to opt for it roughly around once in a year. And it's well worth the effort, as it will ensure that you don't get stuck anywhere in the midst of your journey. Expert estimates suggest that it may cost you anything between $400 to $800 to install the water pump (timing belt inclusive) in your car.

Problems

Car water pump failure can lead to severe overheating problems, and eventually damage the engine of the vehicle. Some of the frequently encountered problems include coolant leaks, damaged impeller, and defective bearing. Owing to the extensive use, and the wear and tear that it is subjected to daily, it's not surprising that the water pump encounters these problems. Symptoms of damage include coolant leakage, noisy engine and corroded parts. If any of these symptoms are observed, you will have to repair the water pump at the earliest. If you feel that the problem is beyond repair or it has been a long time since you last replaced your water pump, you may have to take the replacement option a bit more seriously. You may have to replace the timing belt as well, because like the pump, the belt is also bound to be subjected to great amount of wear and tear.

Any problem in the water pump functioning can reflect on the car's performance. Symptoms of car water problems, if any, should be promptly subjected to necessary car repair measures. You can also take some precautionary measures, such as periodical checks and performance evaluation of your car, to ensure that all these car problems, including the ones involving the water pump, don't recur.

This article come from:http://www.buzzle.com/