The only thing they help is the seal.  The bearings are sealed separately
and permanently lubricated,(HA!). While replacing the pump, carefully check
the case for damage from the impeller.  If the case is grooved, it should be
repaired.  Any wear here will reduce the pumps efficiency as water will be
able to bypass the vanes.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Blue Eyes <lvlearn@MCI2000.COM>
To: vanagon@VANAGON.COM <vanagon@VANAGON.COM>
Date: Wednesday, November 04, 1998 12:27 PM
Subject: Re: water pump replacement 85 GL

>Joachim in Houston, TX wrote:
>
>"..the waterpump on my 90 seized up yesterday with nary a warning . .
>. ."
>
>Which brings to mind "Water Pump Lubricants," a class of coolant
>additive products I've seen marketed for decades.  I have no idea if
>they help, hinder, or just hit the pocket book.  I've never seen any
>test data nor much of anything written about them.  Does anyone have
>any information about whether or not they help?
>John