Water pump's leaking, can I make it to NC and back?

[ChefJRD]

I just discovered I have a leaking water pump on my '95 525i (M50), but it's coming out the eyelet on the pump, which seems to indicate that it's going bad, about to fail, but ok for now. The question is: how much longer do I have? The coolant was a little low and seems to be leaking quite slowly.

I'm planning a 500 mile round-trip visit to a friend going through some tough times this weekend, how much of a gamble is it to drive that far with this pump? I'd much rather replace the pump (and probably t-stat and housing) myself next week when I can get the parts than bring it to the shop today/tomorrow.

Thanks,
Jon

[dacoyote]

The M50's don't like to over heat... if she goes it could be very expensive really quick

[Rus]

My 535i made a 300+ mile trip on a leaking pump. I would not encourage it, but if no other option is available it can be done. Carry a couple of jugs of water with you and stop once in a while to check the coolant level. Hope this helps.

[Mendozart]

If it was me I wouldn't chance it. That's quite a long trip and I think you'll be rolling the dice. Seek other options.

[dacoyote]

If it was me I wouldn't chance it. That's quite a long trip and I think you'll be rolling the dice. Seek other options.

Rolling the dice my ass.....

more like some big ass balls....

[ChefJRD]

Yeah, I think you guys are the voice of reason, telling me what I didn't want to hear.....but definitely the prudent choice. I'll hold off on driving my car down there this weekend, but whether that means that I'll delay the trip or borrow my girlfriend's '92 Civic (cringe....) remains to be seen.

Thanks for the advice, everyone. It makes all the sense in the world not to risk something like this, and that's quite clear after getting some second opinions.

[winfred]

seen them drip for a month and seen them totally erupt out of the blue, no telling on when it's going to dump

[632 Regal]

ask Grave what its like breaking down 200 miles away from home in the desert with no stores, tools or parts.