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Hey guys, got myself a rotary and it's been killing me slowly.. but I can't seem it give it up. After fixing multiple issues that came up, a coolant leak was gushing out of the pump housing. I went ahead and ordered a replacement although the whole pump seems to be decaying. Any ideas, suggestions, info would help! I've heard some say JB weld, but that's a bit sketchy.
How do you mean? Is it gushing out at a seam where a gasket is leaking?
Don't panic. And certainly don't try starting the car and letting it get hot until you've addressed the problem. If the pump is leaking, don't try half measures. Replacement pumps are like $40 on RockAuto. Certainly do not JB weld anything, at least until we have a more accurate description of your problem.
I wasnt expecting such a quick response! Much appreciated! Ive ordered a new water pump housing with a gasket. You can kinda see the hole at the bottom, the whole thing looks shot honestly.. It usually leaks out of the bottom bolt(which ive replaced twice)
Oh I see what you were saying, there is a literal hole corroded through the water pump housing? The rusty looking spot?
Well I wouldn't JB Weld it personally, I'd just replace the housing. It can be hard to find parts for these now (well it's easy to find parts in general, but given the lack of Rx7s in scrap yards it can be hard to find what you need when you need it). I'd check online for local parts for sale or people parting out their Rx7s. Otherwise you can try eBay, but be prepared to pay a ridiculous price.
I wouldn't suggest JB welding that, as heat cycling makes metal expand and contract which might dislodge the JB weld. I wouldn't want crap floating around in the system, plus a leak when driving can turn into an overheat situation pretty fast (and that can mean a new engine). You might be able to find someone locally to weld it up, but again, I wouldn't count on the strength considering it will be repeatedly heated and cooled. A new part is your best bet.
Additionally, and it can be hard to tell from the picture, I believe the metal is fracturing at the lowest bolt hole. Probably due to overtightening. Even if somehow you fix the housing, that will probably present a problem shortly too. A new housing is a good idea.
Yes sadly, the whole inside seems to be rusted. Hardly anyone is letting go Rx7 parts, although i might get lucky on Ebay. If anything ill slap on the new housing and go from there. Since it is the whole water pump ill most likely have to wait until someone decides to junk theirs. Youre right about the bottom bolt too It wont tighten all the way so im hoping itll help. Im so effing lost with this car
Well a new water pump is pretty cheap, I wouldn't go used on that. The housing (the part with the rust hole) you will probably need to find used. Be absolutely sure to inspect it in person before paying if possible. If you buy on eBay, it is a gamble, but certain shops provide a money back guarantee. Make sure it doesn't have any holes like yours (of course) and be really sure to check the bolt holes because fractures can be hard to spot and people have a tendency to overtighten these bolts and crack the casting.
Good luck. Heads up, that rust and crap usually means the system has not had its fluid changed in awhile. Make sure when you perform the final fill up you use only Glycol and Distilled water, no tap water.
I appreciate the help! She definitely needs a lot of work.. I bought it a month ago as a project from some hippie that kept it under a tree for 8+ years lol
You guys are awesome (: I've replace the pump housing and the gasket, all seemed to be fine until the oilcooler blew a hose... then again it is a rotary. Id definitely be interested in the water pump if your looking to get rid of it @raksj04
@raksj04 I really appreciate it! I knew the rotary community was something else, I'll pm you shortly.
@seckerich, I've replaced the oil cooler with a universal using hoses, I've had two blow on me so far, although now it seems to be holding up. Still to scared to drive it lol I've revved her up to 8k everything looked fine. Gonna test it again shortly. Will post pictures of it as well (:
11-08-17, 09:53 AM
It wont tighten all the way so im hoping itll help. Im so effing lost with this car
