Source: Mercedes-Benz Archive

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Mercedes fix technical problem on both cars for USA Grand Prix

Mercedes fix technical problem on both cars for USA Grand Prix

21-10-2018 18:15
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Nicolás Quarles van Ufford

Mechanics on the Mercedes team have confirmed that a small problem needed fixing on both of the cars after qualifying, as the water pumps were replaced as a precautionary measure.

A mechanic was quoted by F1only.fr talking about the detection of a potential problem on both W09 cars which could play up during the race.

"The water pumps on both cars were changed as a precaution because we detected a problem," an unnamed mechanic explained.

"We detected a leak on Bottas' car yesterday in qualifying, so we decided to change the pump on Lewis's car as well.

"They [water pumps] were new, but we are currently building old, proven pumps with the same spec."

Mercedes will not get any parc fermé penalties for changing the water pumps as the FIA doesn't consider the pumps part of the engine or the power unit. Therefore it's legal to switch the parts back to an older spec.

With Lewis Hamilton eyeing his fifth drivers' championship later on Sunday, a penalty would be the last thing he needed as he starts from pole position. He needs to keep Sebastian Vettel two places or more behind him. The German starts from fifth.