1993-1997 Concorde, Intrepid, LHS & More Coolant Pump: The Critical 3.3L vs. 3.5L Difference

The Most Important Factor: 3.3L vs. 3.5L Engine

Before you diagnose, buy, or attempt to replace a coolant pump on a 1993-1997 Chrysler Concorde, Dodge Intrepid, Eagle Vision, Chrysler LHS, Chrysler New Yorker, or 1997 Plymouth Prowler, you must identify which engine your vehicle has. The pump design and replacement procedure are drastically different between the two V6 engine options.

• 3.3L V6 Engine: This is a pushrod engine. The coolant pump is mounted externally on the front of the engine and is driven by the accessory drive belt (the same belt that runs the alternator and power steering). This makes it relatively easy to access and replace.
• 3.5L SOHC V6 Engine: This is a Single Overhead Cam engine. The coolant pump is located behind the plastic timing belt covers and is driven by the timing belt itself. This is a much more complex and labor-intensive job that requires significant disassembly of the front of the engine. The Plymouth Prowler was only available with the 3.5L engine.

Symptoms of a Failing Coolant Pump

The signs of a bad coolant pump are similar for both engines, though where you see the evidence may differ slightly.

• Engine Overheating: This is the most serious symptom. If the pump fails, it can no longer circulate coolant, causing the engine temperature to rise quickly. If your temperature gauge enters the red, pull over and shut off the engine immediately to prevent severe damage like a warped cylinder head or seized engine.
• Coolant Leaks: A puddle of green, orange, or pink fluid under the front of your car is a classic sign. The pump has a "weep hole" on its housing; when the internal seal fails, coolant will drip from this hole as a warning. On 3.5L engines, the leak may be harder to spot as it can be hidden behind the timing belt cover.
• Whining or Grinding Noise: A high-pitched whine or a rough grinding sound coming from the front of the engine that changes with engine RPM can indicate the pump's internal bearing is failing.
• Wobbly Pulley: If you can safely observe the front of the engine, look at the pulley on the front of the water pump (on the 3.3L) or the main crankshaft pulley (which drives the timing belt on the 3.5L). If the pump's bearing is gone, the pulley may wobble visibly.
• No Heat From Vents: If the engine is overheating but the heater is blowing cold air, it can be a sign that the pump's impeller has broken or separated from the shaft and is no longer moving coolant through the heater core.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

While there are no specific recalls for the coolant pump on these models, there are related items to be aware of.

• TSB on Water Quality: Chrysler issued a technical service bulletin advising that using tap water instead of distilled water to mix with concentrated coolant can cause minerals to build up and lead to premature failure of the water pump's mechanical seal. Always use pre-mixed 50/50 coolant or mix concentrated coolant with distilled water only.
• 3.5L Fuel Rail Recall: Many vehicles with the 3.5L engine were recalled for fuel rail O-rings that could leak fuel, creating a fire risk. If you are working on a 3.5L engine, it is wise to inspect the fuel rail area for any signs of fuel leaks.
• 3.5L is a Non-Interference Engine: A critical piece of good news for owners of the 1993-1997 3.5L engine is that it is a non-interference design. This means that if the timing belt breaks, the pistons will not collide with the valves, which prevents catastrophic internal engine damage.

Replacement Difficulty & Procedure Overview

For 3.3L V6 Engines

• Difficulty: 2 out of 5
• Key Feature: Accessory belt driven.
• Procedure Summary: The job involves draining the cooling system, removing the serpentine belt, unbolting the pump pulley, removing the old pump from the front of the engine, cleaning the gasket surface, and installing the new pump. It is a straightforward job for a DIY mechanic with basic tools.

For 3.5L SOHC V6 Engines

• Difficulty: 4.5 out of 5
• Key Feature: Timing belt driven.
• Procedure Summary: This is a major service. It requires draining the coolant, removing the accessory belts, crankshaft pulley, engine mount, and timing belt covers. Then, the timing belt must be carefully removed. Only then can the water pump be unbolted and replaced.

Buying a Used Coolant Pump

While a new pump is often recommended for the labor-intensive 3.5L engine, a quality used OEM pump can be a reliable and cost-effective option, especially for the easier-to-replace 3.3L pump. Cheap aftermarket pumps often use lower-quality bearings and seals that can fail prematurely.

What to Inspect on a Used Pump:

1. Verify Engine Type: First and foremost, ensure the pump is for your specific engine (3.3L or 3.5L). They look very different.
2. Check for Shaft Play: Try to wiggle the pulley flange or shaft. There should be no side-to-side or in-and-out movement. Any play indicates a worn bearing.
3. Inspect the Weep Hole: Look for heavy coolant residue or staining around the weep hole. A little discoloration can be normal, but heavy buildup suggests it was actively leaking.
4. Examine the Impeller: Look inside the pump at the impeller blades. Check for signs of heavy corrosion, erosion, or cracks (especially on plastic impellers). A damaged impeller won't move coolant effectively.
5. Check the Housing: Inspect the aluminum housing for any cracks, especially around the mounting bolt holes.

Cost Breakdown for Coolant Pump Replacement

The cost varies dramatically between the two engines due to the huge difference in labor time.

Note: Prices are estimates and can vary by location and repair shop. The 3.5L estimate should include labor for replacing the timing belt, tensioner, and idler pulley.

Technical Specifications & Part Numbers

3.3L V6 (Accessory Belt Driven)

• OEM Part Numbers: 04882837AB, 4882837AB, 05281175, 5281175
• Drive Type: Serpentine Belt
• Impeller Material: Steel

3.5L SOHC V6 (Timing Belt Driven)

• OEM Part Numbers: 4663732, 4663732AB, 4663732AC, 04663732AD
• Drive Type: Timing Belt
• Special Note: For 1993-1997 models, this is a non-interference engine.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)