Description
Genuine OES Early Scirocco Water Pump with 40mm pulley hub. Made in Germany by Volkswagen’s OES manufacturer. Comes complete with the entire housing sealed and ready to install. Comes with engine block seal and thermostat seal. NOTE: This assembly requires alternator, A/C, and/or PS pump removal.
>>> PLEASE CHECK YOUR VEHICLE BEFORE ORDERING <<<
Some Sciroccos may have been modified to a different pump.
Late Mk1 & Early Mk2 May have had either one from the factory
You can compare the guide on the photo below
 1974 – 1983 SciroccoThis page is the correct product. |
 1980-1992 SciroccoClick here for this pump. |
Replaces Part No: 026121010A / 026 121 010 A
Fits most Mk1s & Early Mk2 8v engines.
Also fits 1975 – 1992: Cabriolet, Rabbit, Caddy, Quantum, Dasher, Fox, Audi 4000, 80 & 90 – Check your vehicle before ordering.
For Mk1 and early Mk2 Sciroccos (roughly 1974–1983), the water pump setup is unique compared to later models. On these “external” pump engines, the pump is driven by the V-belt (not the timing belt) and features a two-piece housing design that is prone to specific issues like seized bolts and housing corrosion.
Here is the rewritten guide tailored for these classic liquid-cooled Volkswagens.
The Importance of Classic Early Scirocco Water Pump Maintenance
The water pump is the heart of your Mk1 or early Mk2 Scirocco’s cooling system. Unlike modern cars, these classic engines rely on a mechanical pump driven by a V-belt to circulate coolant through the radiator and heater core. Additionally, keeping this component healthy is the single most important factor. For example, this will help prevent the “dreaded overheat” that kills vintage VW engines.
Why Replacement is Essential for Mk1/Early Mk2
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Preventing Head Gasket Failure: The 8v engines found in early Sciroccos are robust, but they do not tolerate overheating. A failing pump leads to hot spots in the cylinder head, which can quickly warp the aluminum and blow the head gasket.
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The “Two-Piece” Housing Issue: These early pumps consist of a front half (the impeller/pulley) and a rear housing. Over decades, the bolts connecting them often seize due to galvanic corrosion. Replacing the entire unit—rather than just the front half—is often necessary. As a result, it will ensure a leak-free seal.
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Bearing and Seal Integrity: Vintage Sciroccos often sit for periods of time. This can cause the internal seals to dry out or the bearings to develop “flat spots.” A seized pump will snap your V-belt, instantly killing your cooling and (on many models) your alternator charging system.
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Maintaining Heat Output: A worn impeller may still “spin” but fail to move enough volume to push hot coolant into the heater core, leaving you with a cold cabin during winter drives.
Signs of a Failing Early Scirocco Pump
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The “Weep Hole” Drip: There is a small hole on the underside of the pump neck. If you see crusty blue or green deposits (dried coolant) there, the internal seal has failed.
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V-Belt Squeal or Vibration: If your V-belt is properly tensioned but still squeals, or if you see the water pump pulley “wobbling” while the engine runs, the bearings are shot.
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Grinding/Metallic Growl: A failing bearing often sounds like a gravelly grind that changes pitch with engine RPM.
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Unexpected Temperature Spikes: If your needle climbs past the center mark while idling but drops when you rev the engine, the pump impeller may be slipping or eroded.
Maintenance Specifics for the Early Scirocco Water Pumps
Note on Timing Belts: Unlike later VWs, the Mk1 and early Mk2 water pumps are not driven by the timing belt. However, because you have to remove the V-belt and often the timing belt plastic shields to access all the housing bolts, it is common practice to inspect both systems at the same time.
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The “While You’re In There” Rule: When replacing the pump, always replace the thermostat (located inside the bottom flange of the pump) and the V-belt.
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Bolt Warning: Use plenty of penetrating oil on the 10mm bolts securing the pump to the block. These are notorious for snapping in the engine block on older Sciroccos.
Don’t Delay
On a vintage Scirocco, the cooling system is only as strong as its weakest link. A preemptive Early Scirocco Water Pump replacement is a weekend project that can save you from a multi-thousand-dollar engine rebuild. Keep your classic on the road by ensuring your coolant stays moving.
