Does Mk1 Focus water pump need doing along with timing belt?

RichyX

Been calling dealers for quotes for work on a 99 1.4 Focus.
There's a lot of uncertainty as to whether the water pump needs doing at the same time as the timing belt.
A few mechanics have said they reckoned the water pump doesn't run off the timing belt on the 1.4 Focus, so it was a waste of money doing the 2 at the same time.

Can anyone clear this up for me?

Also, it'd be great if someone could recommend a good value Ford mechanic in Dublin, nearer D8 the better.

Crackle

Just to confirm for you, the water pump on the Mk.1 Focus is not driven by the timing belt.

Sorry I can't help you with a mechanic in Dublin. I'm sure someone else will be able to help you on that one.

RichyX

Crackle wrote: »

Just to confirm for you, the water pump on the Mk.1 Focus is not driven by the timing belt.

Sorry I can't help you with a mechanic in Dublin. I'm sure someone else will be able to help you on that one.

Thanks for that.
It's a bit worrying that a lot of mechanics in Dublin reckon the 2 are linked on such a common car.

L-M

I think it's driven by the alternator

It's probably just assumption on the part of the mechanic, alot of cars are done that way.

theofficepest

it's not that it has to replaced, it's that it should


wikipedia :
Timing belts are typically covered by metal or polymer timing belt covers which require removal to carry out inspection or replacement. Engine manufacturers recommend replacement at specific intervals.[1] The manufacturer may also recommend the replacement of other parts, such as the water pump, when the timing belt is replaced because the additional cost to replace the water pump is negligible compared to the cost of accessing the timing belt. In an interference engine, or one whose valves extend into the path of the piston, failure of the timing belt (or timing chain) invariably results in costly and, in some cases, irreparable engine damage, as some valves will be held open when they should not be and thus will be struck by the pistons.
Indicators that the timing chain may need to be replaced include a rattling noise from the front of the engine.[2]

crosshair1

The reasoning behind the water pump change is that the tbelt interval is 100k mls or 10 years.
It is not realistic to expect a water pump to last to 200k mls.
The timing belt needs removal to do the pump even though it does not drive it so have it replaced as well.
You dont need a ford mechanic for these but I would be cautious of any outfit willing to fit anything less than belt kit + pump + replace coolant

RichyX

crosshair1 wrote: »

The timing belt needs removal to do the pump even though it does not drive it so have it replaced as well.
You dont need a ford mechanic for these but I would be cautious of any outfit willing to fit anything less than belt kit + pump + replace coolant

Ok, makes sense to replace it if that's the case.

A local mechanic who was recommended by boards members reckoned that replacing the water pump would cost big money. Didn't specify how much though.

micksgarage.ie has water pumps for 56€, so not sure what he's on about...

Plug

Get the waterpump. When they remove the timing belt they are seven 8mm bolts holding the pump on, handy to get it done when the belt is off, we'd always do it.

RichyX

Plug wrote: »

Get the waterpump. When they remove the timing belt they are seven 8mm bolts holding the pump on, handy to get it done when the belt is off, we'd always do it.

I certainly will if that's the case.

Still looking for a recommendation for a mechanic.
The quotes I've had so far have varied from 630 for a service, timing belt but no water pump at Winton Garage in Churchtown to 580 for a full service and timing belt/water pump at Rialto Ford.
All seem a bit steep for me.

Plug

Some main dealers doing full services for €200 and belts from €305. Keep shopping, main dealers will be expensive anyway.

RichyX

Plug wrote: »

Some main dealers doing full services for €200 and belts from €305. Keep shopping, main dealers will be expensive anyway.

I'd like to go with an indie if someone can recommend a decent one.
I've rang several mains dealers and indies and the best quote so far is 500€ from Rialto Ford.
That's only covering the timing belt/ water pump and service. There are a few other things that need sorting too.

bryaner

RichyX wrote: »

I certainly will if that's the case.

Still looking for a recommendation for a mechanic.
The quotes I've had so far have varied from 630 for a service, timing belt but no water pump at Winton Garage in Churchtown to 580 for a full service and timing belt/water pump at Rialto Ford.
All seem a bit steep for me.

Suffering succotash :eek: thats as steep as k2, around half that would sound more like it..

RichyX

SDP motors on Arbour Hill said they'd do the timing belt/water pump and service for 420€, so taking it to them next week.