How To Replace Your Car’s Water Pump
When your car’s water pump fails, your engine becomes exposed to overheating. The pump’s job is to circulate coolant from the radiator to the engine, and back to the radiator where absorbed heat is allowed to dissipate. If the component malfunctions, coolant will be unable to reach the engine. Heat will continue to rise until the assembly seizes, possibly causing substantial damage.
There are a few reasons this part can fail to operate properly. First, it is usually powered by a serpentine belt (or a V-belt in older vehicles), which can break or become loose. If the belt fails, so too will the water pump (WP). More commonly, one of the impellers inside the pump breaks or wears down. This impairs coolant circulation. Occasionally, the seal on the shaft of the component will develop a leak, allowing coolant to escape the cooling system. The part will continue to work, but the engine will eventually overheat.
Below, we’ll go through the steps involved with replacing the water pump. Though the job may seem intimidating, it is relatively simple to accomplish when working from clear instructions.
Taking A Few Important Precautions
Be sure to allow the engine to cool before you begin. The coolant will have absorbed intense heat during operation. It’s also a good idea to detach the negative connecting battery cable to prevent a fire or short.
If the placement of the pump requires you to raise your vehicle, make sure you use sturdy jack stands. Don’t make the mistake of assuming a normal jack is strong enough to support your car’s weight. Lastly, work on level ground to prevent your vehicle from drifting.
Removing The Failed Water Pump
Before you can remove the failed WP, you’ll need to drain your cooling system. Place a pan underneath your radiator, and detach the petcock valve. If your radiator lacks this valve, detach one of the hoses near the bottom of the component. You can reuse the coolant after you have installed the replacement pump. However, if the fluid appears dirty, or you notice bits of rust floating on the surface, replace it.
Next, take off the fan belt (or serpentine belt). If a single V-belt powers the fan, simply set it aside for installment later. If your vehicle is equipped with a serpentine belt, make a note of how the belt twists around the various pulleys and tensioner.
If there are any other components between you and the WP, remove them. Depending on your car’s make, model, and year, this might include the alternator, A/C compressor, or other belts and hoses.
With the obstacles cleared, unbolt the water pump and remove it. If the component shows resistance, take a second look to ensure all of the bolts have been taken off the part.
Installing The Replacement
Before installing the new water pump, clear away the old gasket, and apply a new one. Use sealer to make sure the new one is secure. Check the edges carefully. If the new gasket leaks, the cooling system will be unable to perform its job effectively.
With the gasket in place, install the new WP. Tighten the bolts, but avoid doing so too tightly since it can damage the component. Next, reconnect and examine the hoses for signs of wear and cracking. Replace any that are in poor condition.
Inspect The Serpentine Belt
Before replacing the serpentine belt (or V-belts), inspect it carefully. Look on its underside for small cracks or pieces of material that have broken off. It’s worth noting that belts that have been made over the last several years are constructed of a durable material called EPDM rubber (ethylene propylene diene monomer). It rarely displays cracks. Instead, check the groove depth on the belt’s underside. If the grooves are worn, replace the belt.
If you hire a mechanic to replace the water pump, expect to pay a few hundred dollars in addition to the cost of the component. With a couple of hours, a few tools, and a bit of patience, you should be able to do it yourself, and save the money.
The hot summer months make cars prone to overheating. If any part of the cooling system is faulty it will likely result in a breakdown. It’s a smart idea to make sure that these parts are in working order before taking a long trip in the summer, especially in an older car.