Triumph Repair: * Water Pump Concerns *, degree thermostat, radiator fan

Question
Howard,
I just picked up a 79 Spitfire. It runs like a top when it warms up. Here's the situation and the first of probably many questions from me. Immediately after I start the car, antifreeze/water comes out of the hole in the water pump. The radiator fan kicks on when temp gauge hits the mark to the left of H and seems to keep it there. Am I in need of a water pump and what degree thermostat should I use? I'm in Ohio.
Thanks,
Don

Answer
HI Don,
If you have any water come out of the hole in the lower part of the pump you need a water pump as that is the first sign of a pump going bad. It is called a "Weep hole" Water is getting past the water seal. You can sometime drive a car with a small amount seeping out there as long as you feel no play in the pump bearings but It has been my experience that the pump is on it's way out.
I have found that most British cars run hot in city traffic so I like to keep the coldest thermostat I can find, which is probably 160 degree. You can go to a hotter one in the winter as their heaters and defrosters are not great.
Howard