Engine damage related to a leaking water pump

KMCGINN

MEMBER
CHEVROLET

I have a 2000 Chevy Venture with what I believe is a 3.3L engine. The water pump start failing noticable by small leaks and a wobble in the pulley.

When I brought it into the shop they indicated that the pump and belt needed to be replaced; the belt was apparently damaged by the leaking coolant.

After installing the water pump they indicated that there was a leak that they could not find. A block tests indicated that the head gasket was blown.

They now tell me that the engine needs to be pulled, the gasket replaced and the cylinders and valves will need to be ground. Some $2500 in addition to the water pump.

This seems over the top to me. The car has been running well; smooth idle and smooth acceleration. Why is all of this engine repair work needed when the car is running well.

Because of faulty oil change at 75000 miles, the engine was replaced about 3 years ago with a rebuilt. The rebuilt now has about 50000 miles on it. I can not see how an engine with so little milage can require such extensive re-construction because of a water pump related leak.

Any advice and expertise would be appreciated.

2 Replies

AMYNJARROD

MEMBER
5 POSTS

I'd keep an eye on my oil, to see if any coolant's getting in there, and watch your exhaust for white smoke. If its not getting in your oil and your not useing alot of coolant, I wouldn't worry about it. Check it often to make sure, but I think they're just out for some easy cash! You might have blown the head gasket if you overheated it when the water pump was bad, but if not I think you'll be OK.