When to change water pump backing plate

[cbisson]

When changing the water pump on an 802 or 803, what do you look for to determine whether or not you need to change the backing plate?

Thanks,

-Craig

 

[Ray70]

Other than physical damage like rust pitting near the sealing surfaces or gouging if your impeller was hitting it, there is really no reason to change it at all.
You're talking the large 5/16" thick plate that goes between the pump and the end of the head right?
Just change the o-rings on the connector tube and both gaskets while it's off, but I see no reason to change the plate itself.

 

[cbisson]

Other than physical damage like rust pitting near the sealing surfaces or gouging if your impeller was hitting it, there is really no reason to change it at all.
You're talking the large 5/16" thick plate that goes between the pump and the end of the head right?
Just change the o-rings on the connector tube and both gaskets while it's off, but I see no reason to change the plate itself.

Thanks Ray, yes that is the plate I'm talking about. I've got a spare but it sounds unlikely I'll ever need it.

 

[Guyfang]

Its better to have, and not need, then to need, and not have. Worst come to worst, you can use it as a key fob.

 

[jamawieb]

Keep it. I was replacing a water pump one time and tapped the corner with a hammer to break it loose off the motor and cracked. One and only time but glad I had a parts unit.