Suzuki: antifreeze leak on geo tracker, antifreeze leak, head gasket

Question
Hi David, i have a 1993 geo tracker that i bought about two weeks ago. When i bought it it had a very small antifreeze leak, after about a week the leak got worse and now it's just pouring out, and getting worse. I looked under the car to try and see where the leak is comming from and it looks like it's comming from inbetween the belt and the engine. I think it's just the water pump but before i stick the money into it i was just wondering if there is anything that i can check first to make sure it's not a head gasket. If you could help me out with this i would really appreciate it.

thanks for your help

Paul

Answer
Your description certainly sounds like the water pump.  While you're in there, if it's anywhere near 60k since the last timing belt, you should do that as well while you are in there.  As I remember, it's necessary to take the belt off to do the pump anyway.  Might as well put it together with all new parts on the front.
The head gasket is higher than the pump and pulley area, but in any case it will be necessary to remove the front timing belt cover to get a good look.  An easy check would be to loosen the belt and wiggle the fan blades.  A worn water pump would have lots of play with the belt loosened.
scotty