Aston Martin Vanquish DB9 DBS Water Pump CD338K168A

part number CD33-8K168-AA (often found as CD338K168A) refers to the Water Pump and Cover Assembly for the VH-platform Aston Martin V12 engines.

This component is the definitive revision of the cooling pump for the 6.0L naturally aspirated V12. It superseded earlier part numbers (such as 7G43-8K168-AB) to address common leaks and bearing noise found in the original units.

1. Vehicle Compatibility

This pump is specifically designed for the “Gen 4” and “Gen 5” versions of the V12 engine:

• Aston Martin DB11 (V12 Models): Early production.

• Aston Martin Vanquish (2012–2018): All variants (AM11 and AM29 engines).

• Aston Martin DB9 (2013–2016): The “facelift” models with the AM11 engine.

• Aston Martin Rapide / Rapide S: (2010–2019).

• Note on Older DBS/DB9: While it is the superseded part for many older 6.0L V12s, always verify your VIN. Earlier cars (pre-2012) may require the specific 7G43 variant or an adaptation kit if the front engine cover profile differs.

2. Technical Specifications

• Type: Mechanical, belt-driven pump.

• Material: Cast aluminum housing with a high-strength internal impeller.

• Assembly: This is usually sold as a “Pump and Cover Assembly,” meaning the pump comes pre-mounted to the aluminum housing plate that bolts to the engine block.

• Gasket: Requires a specific metal-elastomer gasket (often sold separately as 1R12-08-10077).

3. Common Failure Modes

• The “Weep Hole” Leak: The most common issue. You will see pink or orange crusty deposits (dried coolant) on the front of the engine block directly below the pump pulley.

• Bearing Chirp: A high-pitched squeal or “chirping” sound at idle that fluctuates with engine RPM. This indicates the internal bearings are failing.

• Pulley Play: If the drive belt is removed, you may feel axial “play” or wobbling in the water pump pulley, which will eventually lead to a catastrophic seal failure.

4. Installation Insights

• Access: Replacing this on a Vanquish or DB9 is a labor-intensive job. It requires removing the air intake boxes, the primary drive belt (serpentine belt), and often the cooling fans to gain enough clearance.

• Bolt Torque: The bolts are small and thread into the aluminum block. Over-tightening will strip the threads. Use a torque wrench to meet the factory spec of 10 Nm (approx. 7.5 lb-ft).

• Coolant Type: Aston Martin uses a specific OAT (Organic Additive Technology) coolant. Using “universal” green coolant can cause the seals in this new pump to degrade prematurely.

Buying Guide