No doubt that at some time in a car’s life we’ve heard that distinct noise of a failing water pump, opened the hood, and moved the fan by hand to see if that is what it really is. It happens. Replacing your water pump isn’t brain surgery, but you can’t drive with the old one much longer. It’s best to replace it now, before it fails and your engine overheats. If it already has and you are also replacing a head gasket, then consider replacing the water pump now while it is easily accessible. Chances are you’ll need one soon and this will spare you some unnecessary work later. Make sure you have everything you need before you get started so you don’t end up walking to the auto parts store for something you forgot. You’ll need the correct water pump with which to replace the old one. Auto parts sales people can help you find the correct one based on the year, make, and model of your car. It helps to know the engine displacement just to be certain that it’s the right pump. When you purchase a rebuilt pump, you’ll probably be charged a core deposit. This is refunded when you bring back the core- the old pump when you’re done replacing it. With this, they can rebuild and resell it.It wouldn’t be a bad idea to replace the thermostat, since these are expendable parts that are easily changed. Thermostats should be changed every so often anyway, but this requires you to drain the coolant. It stands to reason that it is economical to get this done at the same time as any other work that requires a coolant change.You’ll need new coolant and gasket sealer (RTV for a water pump). The new gasket is included with the new pump. You’ll need a torque wrench, a socket set, and basic hand tools to remove the serpentine belt and everything that is in front of the water pump.Once you have everything you need, disconnect the battery and drain the old coolant. The old coolant needs to be disposed of properly. I keep the old coolant in a drip pan until I’ve finished, then pour it into the container with a funnel. I then label it used and bring it to approved disposal facility. Some communities provide this service, or a local auto parts store may accept them.I then remove the radiator hoses, the fan and pulley, the serpentine belt, the alternator, and the power steering pump, disconnect whatever wires are in the way (usually there are Molex connectors), and unbolt the pump itself. Sometimes water pumps are stuck with old gasket sealer and require a little tap with a hammer, and some have Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil
