Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Leaking JD LX188, metal shavings, lx188

Question
I have rad fluid leading around where the rad hose goes to the what looks like thermostat housing. It is not the hoses it appears to be coming from the seal. The mower doesn't get hot so i think the waterpump is OK . Do you think it is a seal or the waterpump.

Thank you for your help

Answer
I think it is the seal and you have 2 options.

1. Rebuild the water pump now before it gets bad.
2. Watch the temp and keep an eye on the fluid level.  Be sure you do not see metal shavings in the fluid leaking. Repair it later.

Either way the leak will need to be repaired. So do it now while you know the pump is rebuildable or wait and replace the pump when it fails.