Antifreeze leaking from weird hole on driver's side bottom

[Dan092181]

Hello everyone, 

2002 Subaru Outback 3.0L V6 LL Bean Wagon

Recently, after I drive the car, it loses almost half a container of antifreeze.  It doesn't really appear to happen when the car is running. For example, I started the car earlier, and let it idle for 20 minutes....no leaks while the car is on. However, once I turn the engine off, it stars coming out in droves.....

I traced the leak to the little hole in the picture. It's on the bottom, drivers side, just after the gasket where the water pump is, etc

Any idea's what's happening? The fluid appears clear/green, and doesn't appear to have any oil/gas in it.....

 

Thanks in advance!

[nvu]

sure looks like the weep hole of the water pump.   the pump seals are worn most likely

[Dan092181]

1 hour ago, nvu said:

sure looks like the weep hole of the water pump.   the pump seals are worn most likely

Thanks! If it's the seals, does that require pulling the timing chain off, or can that be done "easier"...? (I've seen the video's on how to replace water pumps on the 3.0...yikes...)

Thanks in advance.

[GeneralDisorder]

No it means the water pump is shot. Yes you have to pull the chain cover to replace the pump.

GD

[Stevo F]

Definitely water pump. 

[rverdoold]

A little explanation:

The water pump has 2 or more seals. Between those 2 seals there is a little space and room with a weeping hole out of the block. This prevents mix up of coolant with engine oil (other engine design) or spilling over the timing belt (here).

(correct right?)

[CNY_Dave]

rverdoold, yes, spot on.

 

For a small leak on this car I would be tempted to try some seal conditioner, but a major leak like this, no.

This is a fairly unusual failure for this engine.