new waterpump too big?

[firefirefire90]

has anyone run into the issue of having to take material off the sides off of the waterpump impeller because it is too large to fit inside the head? I just bought a new leakless impeller for the 1930 model A and when trying to fit it inside the head, the waterpump wont spin. Any input?

many thanks,

-Nick

[Special Coupe Frank]

Yes. I have had this experience.

I bought a leakless from Bratton's when I got my new Brassworks radiator, in March.

There was a slip in the water pump box indicating that the impeller might need to be dressed-down a bit, to avoid grinding against the head.

If I remember correctly, it instructed fitting the pump up to the head w/o a gasket, and while holding it in place, to turn the fan-hub.

If dragging is felt, keep turning the hub several revolutions, while pushing-in on the pump.

Remove the pump from the head, and inspect the impeller to see where the high-spots are (will be rusty-red where it was rubbing against the hub). Carefully dress-down the high spots with a grinder, and test-fit again.

When the impeller spins free, install the pump with the gasket.

I had to dress-down the ends of the impeller-fins (the edge facing the firewall, as the pump sits on the engine) on my leakless.

I think it took two fittings, then all was good.

Over 1,000 leakless miles since.

Good luck with yours !

[firefirefire90]

awesome! I looked inside the box, and I guess I confused the packing paper with the instructions. I am also glad that the front grease fitting was just for show, I didn't know what to do with it haha.

Once again, this forum to the rescue.

[Bobster]

If you are are using a new or reworked radiator, you may need to dress down the impeller fins. Les Andrew's book has a caution on the latest import water pumps in that they may propel too much water and cause overflow problems. Not sure if this applies to your problem. BW - FWIW

[firefirefire90]

are the radiators just not capable of taking as much water as this spins? The impeller fins don't seem to be that much larger than my original. But I will get to that stage when I do. As of right now, I just want to get this car running!

[Special Coupe Frank]

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One step at a time...

Get your waterpump dialed-in, then see how things are.

My new radiator is the "heavy-duty" 10-fin/inch Brassworks, and I've had no issues with the waterpump pushing water out the overflow.

I'm very pleased with my set-up; my car is a driver (not a show-car), and gets driven quite a bit... through some pretty hot days recently... it's been behaving.

This forum is a God-send !