While doing a rear differential bearing job this week on a 2005 Dodge Ram, customer asked me to check out a squeak sometimes under the hood. No one else seems to be able to find it.

Here is what I saw: (I removed fan for better picture)

2005 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT, Engine/Propulsion Photo

After I removed the old pump, I placed a new one beside it to show the difference:

2005 Dodge Ram 1500 SLT, Engine/Propulsion Photo

The pump shaft walked out enough to allow the impeller to ride against the inside of the pump. The aluminum was worn down a good bit as was the impeller. The pump was not leaking nor was there any other issue other than an occasional squeak. Needless to say the customer was glad that the pinion bearing went out when it did or he may have been spending a lot more for repairing an overheated engine!

I guess the tip here is to pay attention to everything, the solution may not be the most obvious.

Patrick Brice
Shop Foreman
Lake Norman Tire & Auto
Mooresville, North Carolina, USA

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