It took a while, just because for context: going into this project I didn't know an alternator from a power steering pump, from whatever that other pump like thing on the passenger side is: and they all had to come off to get to the water pump! I'd also never even checked a drive belt before, but now that I have, I'm replacing one of the two; it was badly checked. So now, I've flushed my radiator, removed all of that, and gotten to the water pump: saving $500 off what the shop was going to charge Just need to scrub the engine block surface very thoroughly, squirt on some sealant, and bolt it all back together again! Thankfully, the 7 bolts all came off very easily without any threat of snapping. Perhaps because they were so saturated in leaked coolant....
It's been a while and someone correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe several of those bolts are long and extend through the aluminum timing chain cover and into the block. I like to coat the shoulder of those bolts with some anti-seize to keep them from becoming a permanent fixture in the timing chain cover. I literally had to chisel a timing chain cover off of a Ford 3.8 V6 one time because the bolts were so corroded in there. Also check to see if you need to apply sealant to the threads of any of the bolts.
Gotta hand it to you, Bernie....you jumped right in and became a car guy with your new/old wagon. I don't know about anyone else but I have to say...with all the work you are tackling on a first time basis..... I'M PROUD OF YA! It will help to get that FSM. Hope you get it soon.
When this is done you're going to feel very happy and smug. Especially for what you're learning and the money you're saving.
YES! Put anti-seize on all of the bolt threads before going back in. If you ever have to take them out again you will be thankful you did. Also make sure that all of the old gasket is removed from the machined surfaces on the engine. Every last little piece has to be completely removed or you may have problems with leaks down the road. On the new gasket put some heat resistant RTV on both sides of the water pump gasket paying special attention to both of the coolant passages on either side of the pump.
That's how I learned. Those who think they can't, can. Mechanicing isn't rocket science but you do have to pay attention, have a book and take your time. There's a lot of satisfaction in doing things yourself. Lefty loosey, righty tighty is the general rule.
agreed! Got it inspected yesterday, failed for front rotors only this time; did them yesterday afternoon, easiest job thus far! Went ahead and redid the brakes and wheel bearings while I was at it, mostly just to learn; and those parts weren't so expensive. Passed inspection this morning and registered today!
Are you sure you are new at the mechanic thing? You jump right in and do anything. You have the nack! I'm thinking you can fix my a/c, it's too hot here to fix it or drive it.
