How to Remove a Car Water Pump

Iskandar Blogger 5:58 AM

Removing an inspecting the water pump to your car may be the only way to diagnose problems in the cooling system. Unfortunately, the water pump is usually buried deep in the engine compartment, behind your radiator and cooling fan. By using the right tools and staying organized, it should only take you an hour or two to remove your water pump.

Instructions

    1

    Park your car on a level surface before your remove the water pump. This will help keep excess fluids such as anti-freeze and coolants from running into gutters.

    2

    Allow your engine to cool down for at least a few hours before you drain your radiator fluid. Opening the radiator cap while the engine is hot is very dangerous, since the hot fluid creates pressure.

    3

    Disconnect your car battery when you remove the water pump. This will prevent the cooling fan from starting while you are trying to get at the water pump. Always wear eye protection such as safety goggles whenever you work around a car battery.

    4

    Drain the fluid from your radiator by removing the radiator plug at the bottom. Be sure to drain the coolant or anti-freeze into a plastic container to avoid accidental ingestion from animals in the area.

    5

    Disconnect the radiator hoses by using a flat head screwdriver to loosen the hose ring clamps. At this point you may want to inspect the hoses for bulges, cracks, excessive moisture or other defects. Since it's relatively easy to replace these hoses, you may consider replacing them now to prevent other cooling system problems.

    6

    Remove the electrical fan assembly that is located behind the radiator. Start by unplugging the electrical leads that run from the fan to the fuse box or battery. Then remove the fan shroud, the fan itself and finally the belt that leads to the fan pulley.

    7

    Slide the housing of the pulley straight out. Removing the pulley should allow you plenty of access to remove the water pump.

    8

    Use a socket wrench to remove the water pump from the front of the engine block. From this point you will be able to inspect the water pump to determine if it needs repairing, or if it needs replacing.