Has anyone heard of or tried to install a one-piece water pump seal in place of the two-piece ceramic units as originally fitted? If so, what did you find? How did it work? Did it last as long as the original?
I don't know how long the one I am replacing has lasted. I am just trying to find out if anyone else has heard or/ or tried this single piece on their 400i.
What are the benefits of the one-piece design? I doubt it will last longer than the original part, but it might be easier to source and less labour intensive? There are not many reason to replace a design that works: supply / ease / cost...
Hopefully to keep the dang thing from leaking. The mechanic has tried three new seals without any luck, and this is after a full engine-out, full water pump rebuild from the inside out. For some reason the two-piece ceramic seals aren't sealing. I'd entertain any and all suggestions at this point - and thank you in advance.
How bad is the leak? On the two piece seals I take the two parts and lap them together quickly then look at the black ring closely and I find areas that the white portion has not touched. I keep lapping them until full contact is obvious. The seal can also be leaking past the rubber seal portions.
@Newman Thank you so much for giving some advice. I don't know if he has done this step or not. I have forwarded your suggestions to him to ask. My guess is he has, and sought another solution after that failed, but it never hurts to ask. On the last seal (OEM one), it was dripping about a drip per 3 seconds - so a lot.
