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Water pump Ford 302

Posted: August 24th, 2025, 12:21 pm
by hlfm
When do you rebuild or replace a water pump. The one in question is less than 4 years, low mileage. Impeller looks good but realized yesterday the sea strainer was backward, and engine over heating. Took apart the pump to check impeller but the pump metal looks awful impeller fine ther is probably rusted grit in the bearings? I replaced the port side last year, just wondering if there is a rebuild option rather than new pump. Mechanic had put the pump on backward, makes me wonder about the sea strainer. Doing my own from here out.

Re: Water pump Ford 302

Posted: August 24th, 2025, 4:08 pm
by km1125
Don't know what kind of raw water pump they used on that engine, but Sherwood is a very popular one. Those can definitely be rebuilt with new seals and bearings.

If you can't find info on your pumps, post up a few pictures and someone may be able to ID it for you.

Re: Water pump Ford 302

Posted: August 25th, 2025, 2:44 pm
by hlfm
I have pics but i cant paste on the phone. It is a sherwood but the metal looks corroded last time i brought it to a machine shop they cracked it (other side) and I just replaced it. Seems like it should be serviceable, but I dont have the tools. Found a new one on ebay for about $200 we’ll see this one is less than 4 years old.

Re: Water pump Ford 302

Posted: August 25th, 2025, 2:51 pm
by hlfm
IMG_9994.jpeg

Re: Water pump Ford 302

Posted: August 25th, 2025, 3:36 pm
by km1125
Yea, if you don't have the tools to DIY, then a machine shop might cost just as much as buying a new pump. And that last pic looks pretty rough like that would have to be resurfaced to be usable.

You might also check into crank-driven pump options for a new replacement. In many cases that can also make for regular maintenance (replacing the impellers) an easier task

Re: Water pump Ford 302

Posted: August 25th, 2025, 6:04 pm
by hlfm
Thank you! That’s what I thought. It is a little frustrating to know a LITTLE, seeing the mechanic put this on not so long ago and the sea strainer is backward. I’m losing faith in the experts and it is hard enough to find help on gas engines. Thanks for your input.