Expert: Don Berlan - 3/1/2011

Question
I noticed a drip from under my 1999 540i. I've checked hoses and they all seem fine. The leak is a water leak and seems to be flowing down within the area where te harmonic balancer is. I'm assumming the water pump is going. How can I verify.  I'm mechanically inclined and an auto major, although my beemer scares me. Will a water pump repair on my beemer be as straight forward as on my toyota? Will I need to know anthing special and will I need any special tools? Is there a sequence I should follow to avoid problems. Do you suggest trying stop leak additives temporarily, or are those not recommended. Please help. I was looking for a video on your website on bmw water pump replacement, but couldn't find one. Is my fear warranted, or should I commit to this project. I certainly don't want to/can't afford dealer rates at this point i my life. I'll appreciate any info you can give me. Thanks  George
Also, I noticed that the heater works well on the driver side, but blows cool air in the passenger compartment. Is this a related problem?
1999, bmw, 540i, vin #WBAADN6332xGM62201

Answer
It all looks scary but is actually not to bad to do.The best thing you might do is purchase a Bentley repair manual for that vehicle.They cover it very well and there is alot of information that will come useful for later repairs.Call Bavarian Autosprts 1-800-535-2002