Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): 98 Neon Coolant leak, coolant leak, leak location

Question
My stepdaughter bought a 99 Neon with 97,0000 miles on it. She complained about it overheating so I decided to take a look at it. After letting it run I found that coolant was leaking on the passenger side under the overseeing pump (at the front of the engine) and was also sorta under the timing cover. Are the odds really good that it's the water pump? If it is I plan on changing the timing belt also since it's right there. She was having a belt squeal also that just happened to stop a day before the coolant leak was noticed.

Answer
Hello Michael:

I Usually Answer Questions About Small Engines; However, My Stepdaughter has a 96 Neon and Had the Same Problem this Past Summer. I Replaced the Water Pump and Timing Belt as you are Thinking of Doing. If you had Not Described the Water Leak Location in the Manner you Did, I would have Sent you an E-Mail Asking you to Ask Another Mechanic in the Automotive Section. If you Hit a Snag or this Does Not Correct the Problem,  I am Here if You Require More Assistance. Hope this Helps. Let me Know What Happens, Please. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks.

Good Luck

Respectfully

John

PS: I am Allowed to Answer 10 Questions a Day. If you See I am Maxxed Out, then Try Submitting your Question at or Just After 8pm EST (US). My New Day Starts then. Thanks.

Respectfully

John