I replaced my water pump about 2 months ago (3.9L) due to a leak coming from the pump. Everything was fine and dandy for about a week or 2 and then I started to see a small drip coming from somewhere near the front of the engine (by the pump) It seems like the pump itself is not leaking anymore, but possibly the small PITA bypass hose. I plan on replacing this tomorrow morning. Picked up the part tonight cost only 4.49 (discount price) It also looks like to do this I have to remove the ac compressor, alternator, and corresponding brackets. also the leak seems to be coming from somewhere around the top of the engine and running down. Anyone replaced this hose recently? Tips on doing so? Possible other causes?

 

Let me know what you find and anyproblems or tips you may have. I am having the exact same problem. I changed out the water pump about 4 weeks ago.

Thanks
BC

 

I would probably say it is a soft plug. my dad has a 2000 with the 3.9L and he has had many go bad. however, if it is coming from the front of the motor i would have to agree wth you. also, i would check the upper radiator hose where it goes into the thermostat. it is posible it is leaking, especialy if you have the stock clamp on it...sometimes they dont hold tight enough after a few years.

 

So I decided to dive in this morning, and rip everything apart. Found out that my bypass hose was bulging, and had a nice little split on it on the intake end. The whole thing took about an hour and a half taking my time. And I took some pics with my cell phone, so they're not very good, but it will give you an idea... coming very soon.

 

Heres the pics


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[IMG]local://upfiles/51195/B6ADF9184B2C408DB72C6C177A320892.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/51195/E396C4D5186F472DAA6F3ABAEF6AB61C.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/51195/C9FE83F6A6AD41459C21FFC3487B0F16.jpg[/IMG]

 

WOW, Was something stuck inside the hose?

Chris

 

It does not appear you pulled the fan blade, but did you have to remove the fan shroud? Did you unwire the alternator or just lay it over out of the way?

Thanks

 

you should only need to pull the shroud if replacing the pump.just take off the alternator,ac compressor, accessory mounting bracket,and upper hose to gain access.just did a 2000 dodge 3500 van water pump and bypass hose with the same set up.i'll take the engine bay on the truck any day over a van.no room to work at all!

 

No nothing was inside. The hose just swelled up from being old (230,000 km's on the truck) The hose had a split about 3/4 on an inch long by the clamp on the intake side.
I did remove the shroud becauseit gave me more room to work, but did not have to.
Alternator was left connected but unbolted and set aside, plent of room to work.I did have to unconnect the ac compressor though (one plug) but left the hoses all intact and set it aside as well.
All in all a fairly simple job, and i'm happy with the results! No more nasty coolant smell, just a small puddle from ac condensation that makes me do a double take everytime.