An improved diesel engine water pump includes three main features that aid in
extending the maintenance-free life of the pump. The impeller shaft is carried
by tapered roller shaft support bearings of which the impeller bearing has a floating
outer race that is urged axially by a preload spring to provide a prescribed axial
preload that maintains concentricity of the shaft with the axis and prolongs bearing
life. An improved oil seal combines an oil slinger, a stationary deflector and
a lip oil seal with a return passage to the engine to more effectively limit oil
leakage from the pump. An improved water seal includes pressurized water jets fed
from the pump volute that flush wear particles from the water seal surface and
increase water seal life. Further details of these features are also disclosed.
