Rebuilding Waterpumps

Mike K · #1 30-05-03, 17:36

This post may be in the wrong place , but here goes

Been rebuilding a Morris CS8 waterpump and I have found that the original type seal kits are not available here . Instead, I have discovered that mechanical seals as used in many commercial and domestic applications ( swimming pool pumps etc. ) are made in a wide variety of dimensions and styles .

If you cannot find a replacement seal kit for a old vehicle , try your local domestic pump repairer / parts dealer . The modern seals are made with stainless steel springs and they will last for years . They are cheap too .

Some improvising may be needed to make a seal fit , but its better than nothing .

Mike

Geoff Winnington-Ball (RIP) · #2 30-05-03, 18:38

Good topic, Mike, I'll run it over to the Restoration Forum... we need lots more hints like this...

Snowtractor · #3 31-05-03, 18:01

Good idea, a question though? HOw will the rubber stand up to grease , oil, and engine coolant versus water ? Also , will the engine heat be an issue too.
I found that bearing specialty places can get almost any size of seal you can imagine. I've dealt with BC Bearing and Western bearing and Fort Garry Industries , in Canada and had sterling results for a lot cheaper than going to a garage or dealership parts store etc. They also have speedy sleeves which are a godsend for pitted output or input shafts of all makes and sizes.
Sean

Mike K · #4 31-05-03, 18:44

Well, Rubber is Rubber ,

Water pump rubber seals as used 60 years ago in WW2 were just plain old natural rubber . Modern rubber is just the same , it hasn't been re invented . If anything, the modern stuff is probably better as it has to cope with chlorine and chemicals in swimming pools etc.

Mike

Snowtractor · #5 31-05-03, 23:46

You're right about rubber being rubber, mostly. Last time I looked there were 50,000 listed plastics ( rubber falls in to this category ) and it was expanding by some 10,000 new polymers a year.
If you are garanteed the seal is rubber then should be fine, but its more likely a blend or a specialised material which will work fabulously in its intended medium but may cause a world of hurt if not.
Just like saying Coca Cola is exactly the same as it was in the past.
Sean