Acceptable Engine Temps when Climbing Mountains

[Andrew Shadow]

Have a look at the below article to make sure that you are correctly identifying which weep hole is which see here- ST1300 - Water Pump Weep Holes
If it is the water pump mechanical seal that is leaking the impeller shaft may also be damaged. If I was doing the job I would replace it while I was in there.
As for removing the fairings see here- ST1300 - Fairing / Tupperware Removal
For installing the fairings see here- ST1300 - Maintenance - Fairing Installation

 

[devitotl]

Thanks for the links. They're very helpful. My ST is a 2003, so it was made before the elbow was put on the top or round hole. Unfortunately, that's where my bike is leaking from. The link says if the bike is weeping from here the water pump needs to be replaced. Has anyone been down this road before? The service manual talks about hydraulic presses and special tools required to remove and install the impeller, oil seal, and bearing. That's beyond what I have lying around my garage and probably my expertise level as well. Is it important to replace the water pump now or is it something that can wait, as long as the bike isn't overheating? Has anyone done this repair themselves?

 

[Andrew Shadow]

I have not replaced one but several on this forum have, so maybe that can be more specific in their replies to you.
The press is suggested because the impeller needs to be pressed in to the mechanical seal to a very specific dimension and using a press makes this a more likely successful endevour.

In short, I can't offer you a hard and fast answer about how urgent a requirement this is. Whether or not replacement is urgent would depend on how badly it leaks, which seals are leaking, and how much the leak rate increases over how long a time frame if it does begin to do so. The possibility that the oil seal begins leaking and allows anti-freeze to get in to the engine is not a desirable outcome. Again, people who have been through this are better placed to answer you.