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[Ken T]

I'm preparing to do a cambelt/tensioner/water pump change and have just noticed that the new pump is a bit stiff to turn. It goes round OK, but will not spin. Also there is a hole drilled in from below the pulley into where the bearings are. Should these be lubricated before fitting?. I thought all modern stuff had 'sealed for life' bearings? :-/

[JasonH]

My old water pump spins freely and smoothly, but I'm afraid I can't comment on a new one.

[JasonH]

Actually I'd really try and check against another one - there were a batch of bad genuine Vx waterpumps around last year.

[Ken T]

Interesting that. I have just taken the old pump out and it is significantly different to the new one. The new pump impeller vanes that push the water are not as high, and the pump goes into the water cavity a lot more thus making the cavity smaller. I just called up Autovaux, and they confirm it is the right part no (AS24409355), made by Bilstein. They also said they have shipped 10 of these and none have come back. The old pump is a bit free'er than this but not much better. What was bad about the VX pumps?. Was it the bearings, or the impeller?. :-/

[JasonH]

What happened was a few people had cambelt and waterpump changes then shortly afterwards started to get rattling \ grinding \ knocking sounds. It was diagnosed as the waterpump. I don't know the specifics.

I think it happened to at least one or two forum members.

[Ken T]

Thanks for that, I'll listen out for it.  

[Marks DTM Calib]

New ones are slightly stiff.....the hole is to let water seep out....