Belt shredded, idler pulley blew up, fluid from water pump area I believe....

I just replaced water pump and waiting on new pulley to get it back together. How can I tell if water pump was issue? It turned freely...I wasn't in vehicle when it happened..

Any guesses at root cause?

 

If the idler pulley is gone, that is likely the cause. A problem with the water pump shouldn't cause other pulleys to go. Replace that one (Advance had one in stock a few years ago when I needed it) and you will prob be fine.

Also, while the belt is off, check the condition of the other stuff. Compressor, PS pump, idlers, etc. If any sound/feel rough, replace or repack.

 

Pretty concerned about why there was fluid everywhere. She says she didn't go far after she realized there was a problem but it sure looks like fluid was coming from the water pump area itself.

 

It’s possible for the water pump to leak when something like that happens. The PO of my disco told me the water pump had grenades and fluid was everywhere in the engine bay

 

I had an idler pulley crap out last summer traveling on the highway at 80+mph and before I knew it had happened one of the radiator hoses blew...stopped as fast as safely possible on the side and shut her down. fluid was everywhere, replaced pulley, belt, all hoses and thermostat and she fired back up just fine.