Ok bit of a decision needed, car is Panda 1.2 8V 2004, only done 33k miles. no doubt the timing belt has not been changed since new so I have a week off work booked at beginning of january so planning on getting belt changed ( I know a man who can ) I will be doing about 8,000 miles a year for next 3 years which should take it up to the 60k mark. so no doubt the belt is overdue age wise, but the question is do I get the water pump changed at the same time ?.
Here is my thinking on this the guy doing the job will ( if i request it ) just by a kit, belt, tensioner and water pump based on price. would I be better leaving the pump alone based on the fact it is original fiat so will be good quality or go for change where the new pump may not be as good quality and only last 18 months. just looking for your thoughts and experiences on this topic . thanks

On balance I would not bother changing the water pump if there is no leak.
New pumps can have a short life, but the good ones go on for almost ever. As the cambelt on the Panda is easier to replace than most cars the labour element is not too prohibitive if the water pump does spring a leak.
The tensioner must be changed, as you say.

My advice would be to give the engine coolant a good flush out ( block, radiator, and heater )and put new good quality antifreeze in a few weeks before you do the cambelt change. If there is no leakage then leave the old pump on, but have a good inspection round the pulley for any leaks when you do the cambelt change.

Good Luck!

I'm on my third water pump... First and second were replaced under warranty in first three years (last one changed 2008 Multijet).

I may have had duff ones, but it probably would do no harm to change yours...

richardllew said:

On balance I would not bother changing the water pump if there is no leak.
New pumps can have a short life, but the good ones go on for almost ever. As the cambelt on the Panda is easier to replace than most cars the labour element is not too prohibitive if the water pump does spring a leak.
The tensioner must be changed, as you say.

!

Click to expand...

must admit thats my thinking, no problem with cooling system now so probably best left alone. thanks for the reply

Wee Smurf said:

I'm on my third water pump... First and second were replaced under warranty in first three years (last one changed 2008 Multijet).

I may have had duff ones, but it probably would do no harm to change yours...

Click to expand...

what sort of mileage are you talking though ? my punto had 70k on clock and was still going strong on second belt and original pump

I'm on 82k now at just over 8 years. I had new timing chain in January at around 71k. But diesels might be harder on their water pumps than petrol. The first two were changed by 25k or so.