Hi, I just drove my 66 Toronado from the upholstery shop home in 95degree weather. It drove great but I needed a cold diet Coke between my legs to keep me cool!

Got home and found a nice coolant leak from the top of the water pump gasket. Using your knowledge of a 425 with A/C (don't know if it works...no belt on since I've owned it) and realizing I have little experience with dismantling an engine is this something I can do with basic tools or should I take it to a shop? I see Fusicks has replacement pumps and if it has to come off should it be replaced if I have no proof it ever has been replaced?

Any information on this issue would be greatly appreciated!

Jeff in Minneapolis (yes it was 95 degrees here!)

 

Do you have a repair or parts manual that shows the assembly? Have a look at that and it will help you decide.
Wild about cars has most of the manuals online as downloadable pdf files if you need them.
Don't leave antifreeze around where pets or kid will get to it as it is sweet and they will drink it and die.
Remember to clean all the gasket surfaces well and use a little Permatex on them.
Be gentile when removing old bolts: if they break off in the block you are in for a bunch of extra work.
Good luck!

David

 

Well, if its a gasket leak you wont need a new pump unless you want to replace it anyway. Always compare the old pump to the new to be sure you have the right length one before you leave the store.... The pump should be available locally from NAPA etc. I would say you could do the job yourself HOWEVER be aware that the smaller bolts will strip out easly if overtightened. Clean them well and only tighten with a nut driver snugly. It is possibly a problem with these that is causing your leak.

 

I have decided after reviewing the information about the water pump that I'm going to hire a recommended "old time" mechanic. My wife told me that if the car sat unusable in the garage she'd have a fit. Don't want my wife to have a fit. I'll get it replaced and then drive it the rest of the summer.

THank you all for your replies...
Jeff

 

where are you located? maybe one of us could help you...maybe?

 

I am in the western suburbs of Minneapolis, MN. I do certainly want to learn to do more with the Toronado. First I had the body work done and just hoped the drivetrain stayed working. The next time I get a car to restore I am going to try it myself by doing the engine and drivetrain work first and only when thats done do the body work. Now I'm paranoid Im going to wreck the nice paint. Uff Da!

Thank you for the suggestion.

Jeff

 

You may wish to save the old water pump. They might give you $5 or $10 for it as a core but its value is already much higher than that elsewhere if it has OEM factory casting marks- 6 digit PN, large identifying feature on RH outlet boss.