Golf GTI Waterpump, exchange/changeover unit?

[Johnbu]

I'm going to change the waterpump when I do my 105k service soon.

Now the part number is 06F121011, if I'm not mistaken.

I found a Genuine Audi WATER PUMP P/N-06F121011X on ebay - NEW Genuine Audi Water Pump P N 06F121011X | eBay

I called up to confirm the part and get quotes on other parts too.

Now the parts person said the X in 06F121011X means it's an exchange/changeover unit. 06F121011 as a new unit will be $400!

hmmmm when I inquired what an exchange/changeover unit was, the couldn't tell me.

Before I get my VW specialist to order me a the waterpump (I have all parts for the 105k service except for the waterpump), can anyone shed some light on what part 06F121011X is exactly?

Or can someone recommend me a place where I can get a Genuine 06F121011 waterpump reasonably priced. I'm kicking myself I didn't buy one from ECS (USD$128.) when bought all the other parts a few months ago.

[Lucas_R]

Call Seb at EuroRevolution in Sydney - he will likely have the water pumps available for you. Water Pump - Euro Revolution

No idea what the X means. Dont think i would be too keen on using an exchange part in my car if thats the case.

[Johnbu]

Thanks Lucas... cheap price too.. I'll check if it's at least made in Germany.. not too keen on Chinese made units.

I'm ok to use exchanged units as long as it's been reconditioned by Audi or VW, I think they keep the housing and just replace the moving/degradabing parts.

[spotme]

X is for an eXchange unit,

This is VW's way being green for the environment.
These all get sent back to Germany to be melted down into something else or reconditioned if possible.
The unit you buy will be brand new or have to meet the standards of a new unit.
If you dont have your old one with you when you buy a new one, you will be charged a core charge so you have to bring the old one back for a core refund.

[Johnbu]

That makes sense.

What I don't understand is the eBay one above. I'm not sure if I buy it would be the full unit or not.

The parts guy didn't know how it works.

But what you said makes sense, as they have just the core for $82.

[brad]

exchange parts used to be very common. radiators, alternators, water pumps, AC compressors, short blocks, carburettors, etc

You usually pay a core deposit until you return the old part. The old part is usually reconditioned.

You can get a Febi / Bilstein unit for cheap Febi 30618 VW Golf 2 0 GTI MK 5 05 09 Hatch Water Pump | eBay

But you may as well buy from Seb as his price is very competitive.

[Johnbu]

OK, I just ordered the HEPU (German) waterpump from Seb. Metal propeller vs plastic in the genuine.

I spoke to him on the phone as I needed him to add a Cabin Filter (not listed on his website) to my order. Never dealt with him before, but he seems like a nice guy.

I'll definately order more parts from him in future as his prices are reasonable.

I think Seb needs to spend some time on his website as he admitted only 20% of his parts are online. It would definitely drum up more business for him. Is he a member here?

Thanks everyone.

[brad]

I think his login is bug racer?

He doesn't come here much - too busy with his business and some "creative differences".

[Umai Naa!!]

Seb's a nice chap. Knows his stuff.

With the metal impeller pumps, you still need to change them just as often. If the bearing fails, you'll trash the engine block, as the clearance to the impeller is very small.

[Johnbu]

I purchased the metal version hoping it would be more durable, I'd change it with each timing belt change anyway.

Cost is nothing considering it's replaced every 105k/7 years.