How to Fix a Water Pump

Fixing a water pump refers to the process of replacing an essential part of your vehicle's cooling system. It is one of the least complicated procedures to carry out, as far as auto repairs go, so almost anyone who can operate a wrench can do this on their own. Follow these steps for how to fix a water pump.

Steps

  1. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 1
    1
    Confirm that the water pump is nonoperational by examining the functionality of the bearings by manually jostling the fan blade.
    • This applies to fan operated cooling systems. The fan bearing should remain firmly seated if it is not in need of repair.
  2. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 2
    2
    Jiggle the pulley that operates the pump in the case of a motorized fan.
    • The shaft should remain tight if it is working properly.
  3. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 3
    3
    Inspect the pump casing for splotches, caused by an inordinate amount of fluid leakage, which would indicate a faulty seal.
    • A few drops of water should sweat from the vent hole over a long period of time, but a ruined seal will cause excessive overflow.
  4. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 4
    4
    Detach the negative battery line once the faulty water pump has been verified.
  5. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 5
    5
    Remove the radiator cap and empty the radiator by disengaging the valve under the front passenger's side.
  6. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 6
    6
    Remove the fan belt, if one is present.
  7. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 7
    7
    Detach the radiator hoses.
  8. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 8
    8
    Unbolt the fan shroud, found on the water pump's shaft.
  9. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 9
    9
    Remove the fan shroud.
  10. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 10
    10
    Remove the bolts from the fan and dislodge it.
  11. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 11
    11
    Disengage the bolts from the drive pulley and remove it.
  12. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 12
    12
    Dislodge the bolts from the dysfunctional water pump and remove it.
  13. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 13
    13
    Scrape any dirt and debris away from the area surrounding the gaskets.
  14. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 14
    14
    Apply industrial cleaning solution to the area and clean it thoroughly.
  15. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 15
    15
    Follow the water pump manufacturer's instructions regarding sealant for the gaskets.
  16. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 16
    16
    Apply gasket sealant, if directed.
  17. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 17
    17
    Install the replacement gaskets.
  18. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 18
    18
    Position the replacement water pump and secure the bolts.
  19. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 19
    19
    Reinstall the drive pulley.
  20. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 20
    20
    Position the fan and the shroud and reinstall the bolts.
  21. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 21
    21
    Reattach the radiator hoses.
  22. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 22
    22
    Reinstall the fan belt, referring to the manufacturer's belt routing diagram.
  23. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 23
    23
    Confirm that the radiator valve is closed and refill the radiator.
  24. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 24
    24
    Seal the radiator cap.
  25. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 25
    25
    Reconnect the negative battery cable.
  26. Image titled Fix a Water Pump Step 26
    26
    Start the car and verify that there are no irregular noises or leaks.

Tips

  • Maintaining the proper ratio of water to coolant, specified in your owner's manual, is the easiest way to prevent damage to the cooling system.
  • Label the bolts to make reinstallation easier.
  • If you smell antifreeze when the engine is running at full temperature, this could indicate a bad water pump.
  • It is imperative to inspect the water pump as soon as you suspect a problem, as a faulty cooling system can be disastrous for your engine.
  • Collect the bolts in a bucket to prevent losing them.
  • An alternative for draining the cooling system is to detach the bottom radiator hose.
  • If you notice puddles of coolant under your vehicle, and there are no immediately visible radiator leaks, then it is time to inspect the water pump.
  • It can be difficult to decipher a bad water pump from a clog in the radiator.

Warnings

  • Do not attempt this repair unless the engine is completely cool.

Sources and Citations

Article Info

Categories: Plumbing Drains Waste and Vents