Triumphrat

Percanto · 03-17-2008

Hi All, my Trident is poorly yet again. Having rebuilt the front brakes, forks, and clutch, now I think it may have a leaking water pump. After a few days in the garage there's a small puddle of water underneath the drainhole in the underside of the pump. First question is, is it definitely the shaft seals inside the pump that have failed? Is this a problem I need to sort right away, and if so, is there a source of spare seals, or do I have to replace the pump assembly (£40ish from a breaker, £150 new)? This is a fairly old, cheap bike, and I don't want to drop more cash than is sensible. And only being able to ride 100 miles between break-downs is getting to be a real PITA.

midliferider · 03-17-2008

The water pump blues.... I had this last summer on a 99 Legend with 29k I've racked up.
I tried the o-ring seals first, the least expensive. No luck it was the water pump that was shot. There is a part in the pump which is not accessable to fix. You will need the whole pump. One thing to watch when you replace the pump. The hose clamps are turned backwards at a few points which makes it tricky to remove from the pump. I started removing the pump with the hoses attached from the radiator. Once it was off I of course upon the replacement turned all the hose clamps around. Easier next time, hopefully there isn't a next time. Good luck. It isn't a difficult job to do your self. Plan on adding new coolant as well.

midliferider · 03-17-2008

One more point, here's the good part. At least you're in the UK great. You will not have to wait weeks for the part like I did. Really it is the pump that goes bad. Here's more good news I'll bet it isn't spring yet and you'll have the bike repaired in time as the weather warms up. Hang in there. I feel your pain when it's 100 miles repair the bike, 100 miles repair the bike....... it sounds like this will be the last thing you need to do. Really. Ride safe.

Percanto · 03-17-2008

Thanks for the advice mate! it looks like the PO re-did some of the hoses at some point - the clamps are fairly easily accessible. As you said, looks like an easyish job - just annoyed that I'm spending more time wrenching than riding - just keep thinking 'Zen'...