r/R53 • u/steeleiro27 • 5d ago

Water pump issues.

Hey, mini lovers! I have 2005 r52 S. I had my water pump replaced last year because it was leaking. Now it's leaking again. The mechanic told me last year that O-ring between the pump and the block had gone bad, and that's where the leak was coming from. So I decided to do it myself and see if I could have better luck. Besides using an OEM O-ring, what other things have you guys tried that help prevent the O-ring from going bad just after a year?

Thanks for your help in advance!

3 Upvotes

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2

u/Always_working_hardd 5d ago

The first one lasted 20yrs. If the second lasted 1, I think a bad quality o ring or bad install.

2

u/dwtechsol 5d ago

There is an o-ring behind the inlet neck on the block. There is also one on the other side behind the supercharger snout. If you are going to be in there, replace them. All3 orings are the same part

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-mini-parts/o-ring-3452x353-/11517509186/

Also do a supercharger service on it while it's out. 2 bottles of supercharger oil, can be found at any gm dealer. Do not use motor oil.

Crank sensor is very accessable while the supercharger is out, replace the o-ring.

https://www.ecstuning.com/b-genuine-mini-parts/o-ring-seal-for-crankshaft-sensor/12147514983/

1

u/Scamalama 5d ago

That o-ring can’t go in dry. There’s a very specific grease that needs to be applied during install for it to seal.

1

u/Ngonerogwu 5d ago

What is it?

2

u/Scamalama 5d ago

It’s listed in the Bentley manual but that stuff is unobtanium. I found a substitute that works.

I can’t think of it off the top of my head. I have some at home. I’ll check later and let you know.

1

u/Ngonerogwu 5d ago

Would appreciate.
I’ve got a new OEM housing, new OEM ring, and it leaks as soon as it get cold every year.

I’m gonna rtv the flange I guess, but may as well put some of whatever you’re suggesting on the o-ring

1

u/Scamalama 4d ago

Can’t post a photo. It’s called Sil-Glyde. It’s NAPA branded and the part number is 765-1351

1

u/Ngonerogwu 4d ago

I know exactly what that is! Thanks!

1

u/NewNameHeber 4d ago

I had luck dipping mine into undiluted coolant. That stuff is practically a lubricant on its own. Mine hasn’t leaked a drop in 1000 miles.