How to Replace an Automobile Water Pump

In the preceding post, we had provided the various reasons for water pump leakage and engine failure. We also discussed the various signs you need to check before you decide to replace the water pump. In this post, we answer the question, “How do you replace a water pump”?

Steps to Replace a Water Pump

This job can take several hours to complete. Hence, you should read these points only if you are willing to invest the time required. Also, all the steps should be performed after the engine has cooled down completely.

• Drain the cooling system by disconnecting the bottom radiator hose. You can also try opening the radiator petcock.
•  Disconnect the car’s battery to prevent anyone from the starting it by mistake.
• Use a serpentine belt removal tool to remove the accessory drive belts.
• If the engine is mounted longitudinally, then you will need to remove the air shrouds, the fan and its clutch before moving onto the next step.
• Disconnect the water pump hoses.
• One by one, remove the pump-to-engine bolts, and the accessory brackets. Ensure to remove any hidden bolts.
• Tug the pump, and it should come off. If it doesn’t come off smoothly, tap the inlet and outlet neck with a mallet, and try again.
• Once you have removed the water pump, remember to clean the mating surface of the gasket or O-ring, which seals the pump against the engine.
• Replace the old pump and its components with new ones. Start working the above steps backwards to replace all the parts on the engine.
• When replacing the belt, ensure you use the right type and size. Don’t use a serpentine belt for a V-belt.
• Once all the components have been replaced, it’s time to add the coolant to the pump. Use the coolant suggested by the manufacturer. The quantity should be half coolant, and half water.

These are the basic steps that you need to follow to replace a water pump. Beyond this, you need to follow the service procedure for bleeding out air bubbles. The drive belt should be installed according to the instructions and diagram given under the hood. If this is a time-consuming task for you, look for a reputed engineering and automotive pump repair shop to help you out.