Forum:
hi,I know this may sound stupid,but how can I tell if my water pump is working,as my engine is overheating.im going to change the thermostat,flush the rad,and change the hoses,I need to top up the rad every weekend,at least 2litres,but I cant see any leaks,any help will be appreciated,cheers truewhite0
Pump and filler cap.
Remove radiator cap. Rev engine. If water appears to rise up the radiator filler then your water-pump could be working.
If your loosing 2litres each week it could be a head gasket [cry!]. However, I have found the filler cap can leak especially if its old. The steam/water escapes and evaporates. Try removing the filler cap and cut a replacement rubber gasket [old inner tube is ideal] to fit the caps seal. Alternatives slighty compress the filler cap's wings [squash with pliers] so it screws very tight onto the radiator. You could be lucky and a badly fitting cap is the problem with over-heating due to low water level etc.