In head (21 stud) water pump issues

Tom in TN

Tom in TN

Senior Member
Hey y’all – need a bit of knowledge. I have a ’34 coupe with a 1936 flathead that I am keeping alive.

I sent these water pumps to Skip Haney to work his magic on, back in 2004.

Problem is the pumps go into ‘squeal mode’ ever so often.. I put grease into them and they quiet down…for a while, then they go back to squealing.

I am using just a regular grease- nothing special in my grease gun.
So I am wondering if there is a special lubricant that I should load into the gun that would be more suitable for the in-head pumps?
Is it likely that they need a rebuild for new bushings?

Interested in hearing your thoughts - thanks
 
Terry said:
Yes the lube is the lowest temperature grease available.
Click to expand...

I sure hope you have something specific in mind 'cause what I am seeing is low temp grease, but it is good to -40 below...I'm not sure that is what you mean...but I might be wrong.

Can you clarify?
 
For early Ford flathead water pumps (specifically 1932–1936 models), you must use a low-temperature, low-melting-point grease (often referred to as low melt grease). This specific type of grease is required because it is designed to melt and saturate the bronze bushings as the pump heats up, providing lubrication.

Using high-temperature grease (such as standard NLGI Grade 2 lithium or synthetic greases) is strongly discouraged for these early models because:

It will not melt at operating temperatures, leaving the bushings dry and causing wear.

Lubriplate No. 115 is the specific water pump lubricant recommended by experts and historically referenced.

https://www.amazon.com/Lubriplate-Low-temp-Multi-purpose-Temperature-Grease/dp/B000P1NT84/ref=sr_1_1?sr=8-1
 
As Terry mentioned, Keep your belt on the loose side. I also find that the belt tightens when the engine is hot.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top