Leaky water pump

Hello,

About 2 years ago, I had the engine of my Audi A3 8L 1.6 completely overhauled. This included, among other things, reboring the cylinder liners to an oversized dimension, installing new pistons with rings, new bearings, etc. In other words, a complete overhaul of the engine block and cylinder head.

Of course, I also replaced the timing belt along with its related components, such as tensioner pulleys and the water pump, etc. (brand with the orange "C").

After approximately 4000 km, I noticed that I was losing coolant. The coolant was leaking from the water pump.
I thought to myself: Well, it happens, it was probably a manufacturing defect.
Since I regularly replace the timing belt, I generally have several sets at home, and I quickly installed a new belt along with a new pump.

I should return the old belt to the dealer and file a complaint, following an email I sent to the brand with the "C" logo. I did this after discussing it with the dealer.
Unfortunately, despite several reminders, he still hasn't managed to return the pump, let alone have a new one sent to me. ...then I'll just buy it somewhere else...

Back to the topic:

Today, I noticed that the new pump, which is now about 1 year old and has been used for 6000 km (seasonal vehicle, used only in summer), is leaking again!

The leak is not coming from the rubber seal or the bearing. It's coming from a type of "plug" inside the pump housing, which has a square opening at the bottom.

As I said, I regularly install timing belts, but I've never seen anything like this before. ...this can't be a coincidence, right?

Has anyone else had similar experiences?

...I'd rather not install a new pump, as it might leak again after just a few thousand kilometers. Besides, I always have to replace the belt as well, because it becomes soft and greasy from contact with the coolant.

The photo shows (on a different pump) where the coolant is leaking out.

Hi,

I experienced the same leak at approximately 13,000 km, and the pump was manufactured by SKF.

Regards,
Adrian.

It's best to install an original pump... I've never had any problems with them.