85’ 6.9idi n/a: two water pump seal failures.

Rocktraingreen

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I have replaced the water pump and had two times with the same result: coolant flows heavily from the timing cover and gasket from the top two bolt area. This is just dumping it in without starting it. I let the gasket set over night to set up the first night with the gasket that came with the new pump. This attempt I used the permatex grey thermostat housing and WATER PUMP gasket maker. Not happy that it was still wet and tacky over night when I cleaned pump and cover. The project is in side about 50-60* F. I put the sealant on all bolts. Especially the top two and bottom. Tightened and Torqued 12 then 15ft-lbs in a 14 point star pattern…. There is no oil/coolant mixture but the timing cover seal is my suspect. Could the timing cover have warped? I have to check the flush on the pump and cover plate with straight edge and light. I left the second failure installed to troubleshoot what I may have done wrong. I had a friend come and help me with the second gasket attempt with a fel-pro blue seal impregnated gasket. He has done countless seals and decades of muscle/ truck/ heavy- light mechanics and he is perplexed as well. I need prayers and y’all may be His answer. Thanks for reading because I have exhausted most of my money and multiple days, the rock train green is my business and passion. Has anyone had similar failures?
 

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KansasIDI

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I recommend to go much tighter on the bolts

Had this on my 91 recently, went through a couple water pump gaskets but wound up closer to 25-30 ft-lbs
 

KansasIDI

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Hey KansasIDI, thanks for the response man. I read about your stories. It’s like I met you. I will use that knowledge. Does a double gasket sound like a good idea?
No, I’m just saying that I had a couple gaskets that wouldn’t seal up, bought a stiff paper based one from Napa, very light coating of 90 minute Permatex and that worked for me. At 25 ft lbs for all bolts except top and bottom two, at 30.
 

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