Had my 08 ST1300 at the local dealership to track down a FI problem and a coolant leak. The FI problem was easily fixed. The coolant leak is another issue altogether. They said that the pump was leaking from the weep hole and would need to have the seals replaced. The cost for this was outrageous. Told them I would do it myself. How tough a job is this? Anyone here done it? I do have a shop manual.
Pat
Pat,
It is possible that the shop you took your motorcycle to was using an
old & outdated service manual. I say this because in 2011, when I purchased my used 2007 ST1300, I purchased a new Honda Service Manual, which came with some supplemental pages attached. One of those pages (6-19) has a new procedure/specification for determining what the coolant leak means.
But first, I'll start with page 6-5, which has the troubleshooting information. The only time that the
water pump is listed as a problem is under "Engine temperature too high."
For "
Coolant leak":
- Faulty water pump mechanical seal
- Deteriorated O-rings
- Faulty radiator cap
- Damaged or deteriorated cylinder head gasket
- Loose hose connection or clamp
- Damaged or deteriorated hose
On page 6-19,
"Mechanical Seal Inspection (After '07),
Check the inspection hose for signs of coolant leakage.
- A small amount of coolant weeping from the inspection hose is normal.
- If there is continuous coolant leakage from the inspection hose while the engine is running, replace the mechanical seal."
Even if there is continuous leakage from the inspection hose, the water pump does not need to be replaced. The mechanical seal needs replacing.