Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Took off my water pump to get rebuilt. I've a question regarding the water distribution tube. This is for a 37 120c, if it makes a difference. The tube that is currently in it is in great shape however the front of the tube is slightly bent/folded back against the block, about 1/4", it looks like a couple tabs, I'm assuming the purpose of that was to hold it in place? However to me this would cause the pump to not sit flush with the block when installed, even though the tube itself is really thin. Was the tube installed correctly or does the tube simply get pushed into the block with it stopping on its own thus being flushed with the front of the block? Or does it need that little fold to hold it in place? Just wanted to make certain before installing the pump. Thanks

Attach file:

---

  (386.37 KB)

The tabs are correct. The gasket is thicker than the tabs.

Quote:

Thanks Ross! I wanted to be certain. Trust but verify.

Hey ElGroucho, as stated the 'tube tabs are correct. One thing to check when you're reassembling is that the hole in the gasket, when lined up with the bolt holes, is big enough to be outside the brass tabs. In the rebuild kit for my car, I think there were 3, maybe 4 waterpump gasket choices, I presume for different blocks and various pump possibilities, and only one of them fit with the distribution tube hole AND the tabs exposed. I, like you, was worrying about the thing sealing there and the last thing one wants is to get it all back together and have a drip at the bottom of the waterpump. Hard thing to get at and fix, once its all reassembled. Chris

Quote:Thanks for the tip Chris. I installed it prior to your post and didn't notice if the gasket tube opening on the gasket was bigger then the opening and tabs. It all lined up on the water pump. Hopefully there's no issues with it tomorrow or should I say today when I get up in the morning and fill it up with coolant and start it.

Yes, good luck ElGroucho. I suppose the gasket is thick enough and the brass is thin enough that there will be some forgiveness there. I find antifreeze leaks so finicky and they can be very persistent when one is trying to fix them. I had a very slow seep in my thermostat housing and took it apart a couple of times before finally getting it 'dry'. I hope you are 'drip free'! Chris.