Install rusty but good coolant pump?

Post by **FireFox31** » 23 Jul 2023, 15:13

What do you think about installing a used coolant pump with some light surface rust on its fins? The pic shows the worst fins before cleaning.

The pump is from my old V70, Aisin brand, maybe 130k miles on it since ~2010. I did a bad job storing it, allowing that rust (and on the 20k mile idler and tensioner). I tried scraping it off with a screwdriver behind a wet rag, did a decent job, but still some deeper rust remains.

Is it safe to install this or smarter to spend the $88 on a new Aisin?

Post by **Krons** » 23 Jul 2023, 16:41

For $88 not a chance. If it goes bad chance you could lose an engine. Just replaced my kids 02 S60 2.4T at 188k—mechanic said I almost lost the timing belt had it gone much further.

Now if $288 or more I’d maybe have a different opinion. But with 130k on it IMO not worth the chance.

Post by **volvolugnut** » 23 Jul 2023, 17:56

I agree. Not worth the risk.
volvolugnut

Post by **scot850** » 23 Jul 2023, 19:26

I also agree on it is not worth the time, effort or risk fitting it. Also it may be my imagination, but a couple of the impeller blades look bent.

At that price fit a new one and sleep easier. The tensioner and idler, you have to make the call. With 20k on them they should be good, but bad storage and potential for internal condensation/rust may make the call for you.

Neil.

Post by **FireFox31** » 23 Jul 2023, 22:06

Thanks for the input. My first and only timing belt job was an unthinkably long task (due to constant slight problems, hopefully all lessons learned not to be repeated). I don't want to do it more times than I have to.

Kicking myself for storing these in an unconditioned space for 1.5 years. It would have been nice to reuse the 20k mile tensioner and idler. If I won't use new ones which got wet with coolant, I can't use ones which may have internal rust.

abscate, do you want the parts back? Sorry I wrecked them.

Post by **abscate** » 24 Jul 2023, 03:13

No, thanks,FF..I would also not use a 130k pump unless it was for one of my own low use cars

454cid · Post by **454cid** » 24 Jul 2023, 09:33

The rust doesn't bother me. I'd be more concerned with bearing and seal condition. At 130,000 miles, it's life is probably limited. I'd re-use it if strapped for cash, with the understanding that I'd need to keep an eye on it, and be prepared to go back in an replace it.

Post by **abscate** » 24 Jul 2023, 11:54

454cid wrote: ↑24 Jul 2023, 09:33 The rust doesn't bother me. I'd be more concerned with bearing and seal condition. At 130,000 miles, it's life is probably limited. I'd re-use it if strapped for cash, with the understanding that I'd need to keep an eye on it, and be prepared to go back in an replace it.

For me the economy of that would fail as, on top of the worry, the four hours @ $25 self mechanic rate is more than a new OE pump

Post by **scot850** » 24 Jul 2023, 12:25

Agreed, that is the same way I look at it. I will occasionally make a diversion on that path if for example a part is on back order and I need the vehicle. I still maintain that the vanes on the pump look strange on the RHS of the picture, like they are bent downwards.

The 2nd part is the potential for catastrophic failure and then the recovery cost of that repair.

Neil.

Post by **FireFox31** » 24 Jul 2023, 15:15

abscate wrote: ↑24 Jul 2023, 11:54 For me the economy of that would fail as, on top of the worry, the four hours @ $25 self mechanic rate is more than a new OE pump

Thanks, it's that kind of math which helps drive better decisions. The pump will go in the scrap metal bin.

Are you all worried about potential rust inside the bearings? My first concern was rust on the fins contaminating the coolant and harming the engine internals.