Gone through two aftermarket water pumps now both have developed a leak at the round press fit plug at the front of the pump.Looks like i will have to go genuine or get another aftermarket one and fill it with JB weld (metal filler).
Who else has had them leak here.?

There is a replacement seal/gasket pack available for the waterpump for a few dollars.

I subscribe to the silicone application that was mentioned. Clean the bottom of the head at the contact point real well and then wipe with lacquer thinner. Put silicone in the groove where the rubber doughnut sits and then put a layer of silicone on the top of it before installing it.

Good luck,
Randy

There's absolutely no need for silicone or any other sealant on the "mushroom". Suggestions of using jacks and blocks of wood are also unnecessary (unless you have only one arm or hand). A philips screwdriver (as has been suggested) or a drift placed in the bottom most mounting hole (after running in all the other bolts/nuts to the point of contact) and then levering the pump upward with one hand while snugging the others is all that is needed. -- Dave

Leaking oil seals or the valve cover gasket will speed the deterioration the rubber mushroom gasket. I think there is a few sentences in the 7/9FAQ about someone having luck by coating the mushroom gasket with RTV.

Tom

If you are referring to the top "Mushroom" seal, it is a common leak area if the pump is not installed properly. Read the FAQ's. You need to impart some upward force to mush the seal up into head prior to and while tightening the nuts.
I use a small bottlejack and piece of 2x4 about 16 inches long to place a SMALL amount of pressure prior to tightening nuts. DO NOT put too much upward pressure or you risk snapping a stud or bolt in the head, just a little. Many peeps just use a screwdriver in one of the bolt holes to lever up.

I am talking about it leaking from a round plug i think its called a freeze plug at the front. They have been leaking between this plug and the housing. Its a 960 straight six engine.

OIC, myself and the other posters all thought you were referring to the 4 cylinder engine and water pump. If it is a freeze plug that leaking, replace it. I have never had to do so myself but it seems a simple enough procedure. Remove/lower coolant.Punch hole in center of plug and pull out. Clean orifice, tap in new one. Its just friction that hold it in.