Water pump seized (more) (archive)

I've got a '96 328is with 65,000 miles on it with the original water pump, I think that it may be the plastic type. I ran an autox today and the temp ran fine. I drove the car home and let it sit for 4 to5 hours. I went out for about 1 or 2 miles after that nad the acar was making a strange spinning, whirling, whirring sound... it seemed to be coming from the engine bay. At home I noticed that the fan was not spinning at idle or when I reved it up to 3000 or so. Since it was a short drive, the temp did not have a a chance to get any higher than normal. Any body have a diagnosis? shot water pump? dead fan clutch? how can I check to see if that's the problem
If it is the water pump... where can I get a replacement, all metal one?
Also... dull clunk in the right rear... shock mount?
Thanks,
Matt Smith
'96 328is

AHSprite78@aol.com

If the fan is not turning at all with the engine running, then the water pump is not turning either.

The pump may have a seized bearing or (more likely) the plastic impeller has come apart and jammed.

The sound you are hearing could be the belt slipping on the water pump pulley.

If it is a seized water pump, there is no reason to suspect the fan clutch is bad.

You can get a re-built water pump with metal impeller at the dealer. Cost is $90 plus $50 refundable core charge (Canadian dollars).

I replaced mine recently. You may want to replace the plastic thermostat housing and thermostat at the same time. They cost about $65 for both. Don't forget to ask for all the necessary seals.

Let us know how it goes.

Regards, Steve G

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