QuestionCar overheating, replaced T-stst, overheated again & burst plastic radiator. Replaced radiator & T-stat (second T-stat), cannot confirm flow as fill cap is not directly over radiator. How do I confirm flow, i.e. perhaps the water pump has failed? If water pump has failed, what is procedure for replacement, does timing belt need to be removed, etc.
Thank you & great forum!
Chris Meier
AnswerHi, Chris. Usually, you can see some movement in the coolant when there's flow, but the difference between flow and no flow is not very obvious, either. If you've got coolant flow, both radiator hoses will get hot and there will be hot air blowing off the radiator when the fan cycles. (Be sure to check with A/C off). If you've got no flow, the fan will blow cold air, and in most cases only one radiator hose will be hot.
The water pump is located directly behind the pulleys near the center of the timing covers. You'll need to remove the timing belt to get the water pump out. Once you've got the timing belt and pulleys off, you can pretty much unbolt and remove the water pump. I doubt this is the problem, though. While I know there have been rare instances when impellers come off or corrode away, I have never once heard of this happening on a Hyundai.
