Water pump for Dodge Challenger, Charger & Durango Hellcat, Jeep Trackhawk & RAM TRX

Mopar comparison numbers: 68268052AA, 68165882AC, 68165882AD

Fits:

Delivery includes:

• Water pump
• Gasket

What does a water pump do in a car - and how can you recognize a fault?

The coolant pump - usually simply called the "water pump" - is a central element in a car's cooling system. Its main task is to pump the coolant through the engine and radiator. This removes excess heat and keeps the engine at a constant operating temperature. Without a functioning water pump, the engine would quickly overheat, which can lead to serious damage.

How does a water pump work?

The water pump in the Hellcat engine is driven mechanically via the V-belt. While the engine is running, the pump ensures continuous circulation of the coolant through the cooling circuit.

What can damage a water pump?

• Typical causes of damage to the water pump are
• Wear of seals or bearings, for example due to ageing or insufficient lubrication
• Deposits or rust in the cooling system that block or damage the pump
• Defective belts or belt tension in mechanical pumps
• Leaks through which coolant escapes
• Overheating when the pump is already no longer working properly

Signs of a defective water pump

A failure is often indicated by the following symptoms:

• Loss of coolant (visible puddles under the vehicle or sinking level in the expansion tank)
• Squeaking or grinding noises from the engine compartment
• Warning lights for coolant temperature or engine temperature
• Overheated engine, especially with low airflow cooling (e.g. in traffic jams)
• Steam or coolant odor in the hood area

Why a defect should be taken seriously

If a defective water pump is not replaced in good time, it can cause serious engine damage - for example due to overheating, cylinder head gasket damage or, in extreme cases, even piston seizure. A workshop should therefore be visited as soon as possible if a defect is suspected.