Vacuum Pump Oil Leak

[bigbluemav]

Hi All

I have a slight oil leak from the vacuum pump (mounted behind alternator). Even with engine running a leak isn't evident, but there's oil residue on the lower part of the alternator that's never been there before.

I haven't removed the alternator as yet.

Is this a regular prob with GQ's? Does it mean an alternator rebuild/replace? Can I fix/replace just the vacuum pump?

All help greatly appreciated.


Regards

[ozy1]

you will find the prob is just a seal or shaft in the alternator, the seal stops oil from the vac pump entering the alternator housiung,

the oil then drains out a small 2mm drain hole, which is more than likly in the area of damponess you are seeing,

there is a possibility that you are only up for a seal, but there is also a possibility you have a scored shaft, and they will have to fit a speedy sleeve (i think thats what they are called) so the new seal will have a smooth surface to run on,

had my GQ alt rebuilt about 6 months ago, cost around $267,

[bogged]

I have this leak too, but it was tehre before alternator was rebuilt, and is still there, so dont think its alternator.

There is actually a small right angle pipe down there that fractures.. hoping this is the issue.

[bigbluemav]

I was mainly worried about the thing becoming a major leak, blowing the hose and oil gushing out, causing an engine self destruct.

I was going to take out the radiator to blast out mud and bugs from fins, replace coolant and thermostat anyway, so I'll give it a good look at and replace the small right angle hose (no pressure as I assume it is the return/drain from the bearing) that Bruce mentioned as well as inspect the inlet oil line (that I assume is oil under pressure)

Any other suggestions??

Ta guys

[dumbdunce]

it probably won't hurt the vac pump but what can happen is that the oil soaks into the porous graphite brushes in the alternator and causes them to attract grit, which makes them abrrasive, which wears away your slip rings fairly rapidly. the fix is to pull it apart, speedi-sleeve the shaft if it is scored, and fit a new seal. $30 in parts and a couple of hours.