All,
For the past year or so I've had a mystery coolant leak on my 97 XJ 6cyl. Essentially I'd fill the coolant reservoir to the proper level and then about 2 to 3 weeks later there would only be an inch of coolant in the reservoir. The mystery being that I couldn't find any pooled coolant under the Jeep. When I took it into the dealership (gasp) the useless mechanics told me they "thought" there might be a leak in the radiator and suggested a radiator replacement.

Then a few weeks ago I was on a road trip, about 250 miles, and while stopping for gas I suddenly found it! A pool of coolant under the Jeep! And it wasn't coming from the radiator...its a good thing I couldn't afford the radiator when they suggested it.

The leak looks like its coming from the water pump. There is a bunch of dried green coolant staining the bottom of the pump and the coolant is winding down the coolant feed line and dripping when it hits the low point.

My question is how likely is it there is a leak in the pump, necessitating a replacement pump? Is it more likely the seal around the pump? Or is there another part in that area I’m overlooking? Take a look at the pics, let me know any suggestions anyone might have. Thanks.

 

It's coming from the weep hole in the pump meaning the pump is shot.

 

By the looks of the clamps on the radiator hose I would start there. New hoses and clamps.

 

If the pump is beginning to leak then, as stated above, its shot. If your going to replace the seals you mights as well replace the pump while you have it out, just in case it's not just leaking from the seals. Otherwise you will be right back here in a month or so. I'd start there then move to the other parts like hoses and clamps.

 

Replace the water pump, radiator hoses, thermostat, and serpentine belt (it's not a timing belt).