MacAttack_14
Member
Because I couldn't find anything specific about this issue, I thought I'd post a short write-up.
I had been smelling coolant on and off for a few weeks but couldn't find the leak. Finally it showed itself and it wasn't shy about it. My truck was taking a leak on my driveway! With a bright LED light it was easy to see that the water pump inlet tube was the culprit. And man, it was bad.
I found an old post about the correct part and ordered the Dorman (I know, not the Cadillac of brands) and contacted the OP for tips.
However mine wasn't as easy. The old tube sure didn't want to come out. I thought I was hosed (pun intended) but I took a long 24 inch prybar, nestled the tip at the bracket, and hammered away until it broke loose. I was then able to yank it out by hand. I should note that I was able to twist the tube back and forth in the water pump but it wasn't exiting. I did this for a good 20 minutes before breaking out the pry bar.
After some careful cleaning of the hole, the replacement slid right in, the bracket lined right up, and I was able to get it all back together pretty easily.
But the MAWs got me (might as wells) and since I had the airbox out (necessary for me to get at the tube) I washed all the covers, the air box and lid, and the pleated air tube. I also took the opportunity to remove and clean the throttle body, being careful not to get any cleaner in the electronics.
Anyway, maybe this will help someone down the line.
I had been smelling coolant on and off for a few weeks but couldn't find the leak. Finally it showed itself and it wasn't shy about it. My truck was taking a leak on my driveway! With a bright LED light it was easy to see that the water pump inlet tube was the culprit. And man, it was bad.
I found an old post about the correct part and ordered the Dorman (I know, not the Cadillac of brands) and contacted the OP for tips.
However mine wasn't as easy. The old tube sure didn't want to come out. I thought I was hosed (pun intended) but I took a long 24 inch prybar, nestled the tip at the bracket, and hammered away until it broke loose. I was then able to yank it out by hand. I should note that I was able to twist the tube back and forth in the water pump but it wasn't exiting. I did this for a good 20 minutes before breaking out the pry bar.
After some careful cleaning of the hole, the replacement slid right in, the bracket lined right up, and I was able to get it all back together pretty easily.
But the MAWs got me (might as wells) and since I had the airbox out (necessary for me to get at the tube) I washed all the covers, the air box and lid, and the pleated air tube. I also took the opportunity to remove and clean the throttle body, being careful not to get any cleaner in the electronics.
Anyway, maybe this will help someone down the line.
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