Replacing the water pump

[waterman42]

Well here goes with my first post on here.

I've got a leaking water pump, the coolant is escaping from a tiny hole at the base of the pump (doesn't show on the exploded diagram). Oddly it appears only at idle, quite a gusher, but not present at 2000rpm and above. I think I understand why that is. Anyway I've got a new pump, the job looks quite simple, but if anyone has a useful do or don't to offer I'd be glad to learn.

[lancialulu]

One or 2 bolts are partially hidden by the casting. You may find better access with the grill removed (and oil cooler if fitted). With the water pump removed inspect the timing chain tensioner shoe.

[Simon B]

Changed a water pump on our S3 earlier this year, as suggested, much better access with the grill removed.

[waterman42]

Thanks for those observations. Had the grille off already and all looked fairly straightforward, despite eyesight and dexterity not what it once was. The bottom two bolts are tricky to access, short 10mm ring spanner which fortunately was in my toolbox. Timing chain shoe looked to have fair amount of 'meat' on it so have judged it to be OK.

The failed pump was a replacement 8 years and 12k miles ago.