Willys Jeep Cooling System

The cooling system consists of the radiator, radiator cap, radiator hoses and heater hoses, thermostat, and water pump. The correct performance of the jeep depends a great deal on the proper function of its cooling system. The engine block is full length water jacketed which prevents distortion of the cylinder walls. Directed cooling and large water holes, properly placed in the cylinder head gasket cause more water to flow past the valve seats (the hottest parts of the block) and carry the heat away from the valve, giving positive cooling of valves and seats. This system is designed to provide adequate cooling under adverse conditions.

Problems with engine overheating

Engines are not damaged by high coolant temperatures unless the coolant boils. Should overheating be encountered, check for the following:

1. Proper coolant level.

2. Poor air flow. Check for dirty radiator core. Check for faulty belt pulley operation, worn or loose fan belt, or damaged fan. Clean, repair, or adjust as needed.

3. Foaming coolant. Check for air leaks at water pump, hose connection and filler cap. Tighten, repair or replace.

4. Surging or “after boil”. Check pressure cap and replace if valves or gasket are faulty. Install lower temperature thermostat.

5. External leaks. Check these for leaks: Hoses and clamps, water pump, radiator, head gasket, core plugs and drain cocks, as well as the cylinder head or block for cracks.

6. Internal leaks. Check for faulty head gasket, cracked cylinder head or block.

7. Inadequate coolant flow. Check hose condition, water pump, fan belt, and repair or replace as necessary. Inspect block for rust or scale, and clean and flush the system if necessary, which should ideally be done twice a year.

8. Be sure a thermostat  is installed.

9. Check the temperature gauge.

The water pump should be checked for leaks or too much play or looseness of the shaft in the pump. A quick way to check is to work the fan blades up and down by hand. If any play is noticed, this indicates that the bearings are rough. Rough bearings are an indication that the water pump should be rebuilt or replaced.

Water Pump Disassembly:

1. Remove the fan belt, fan blades, and fan pulley.

2. Remove the bolts attaching the water pump to the block. Remove the pump.

3. Remove the bearing retainer spring.

4. Remove the pump impeller and pulley with a suitable puller.

5. Remove the pump seal, bearing and shaft, and bearing slinger.

How to remove the radiator and water pump from your Willys Jeep – Part of an ongoing “Jeep” disassembly and restoration series sponsored by Kaiser Willys.

To watch other videos on the disassembly of your Willys Jeep Vehicle refer to The Build Your Willys series on YouTube. Order the Service Manual For The Universal Jeep Vehicles, includes complete vehicle disassembly, assembly, and blowup diagrams.

Water Pump Assembly:

It is important to examine the seal seat in the pump body before assembling the water pump. Should it be rough install a new pump body.

To reassemble the unit, first insert the long end of the shaft into the pump body from the front end until the outer end of the bearing is flush against the front end of the pump body. Position the seal, washer, and pump seal on the shaft flush against the ground seat in the water pump body. Place the impeller on an arbor press and press the long end of the shaft into the impeller until the end of the shaft is flush with the hub of the impeller. Support the assembly on the impeller end of the shaft and press the pulley hub on the shaft until the shaft end is flush with the pulley hub. Move the shaft in the pump body to align the retaining wire grooves in the bearing and pump body and place the bearing retaining wire in position.

New Replacement Water Pump Repair Kit. 

Complete kit to replace the major wear items in your old, worn out, leaking water pump.

New Replacement Water Pump.

Complete water pump with single groove pulley and gasket included. Ensure proper cooling of your vehicle!!!

Call Mike @Kaiserwillys.com for details at TOLL FREE 1-888-648-4923 (Mon-Fri, 9AM-5PM EST).

*Manuals : Mechanics Manuals, Owners Manuals, Master Parts Lists

*EMAIL or call Mike Toll Free (1-888-648-4923) Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm EST if you have any questions about this part or restoring your Willys.

Get Connected. Stay Inspired. Build Your Willys.

If you are looking for, Willys Jeep Cooling Parts, or Willys Jeep Restoration Parts and much more for your 1941-1971 Willys vehicle, you have come to the right place!