Get a quote to replace the pump from your actual mechanic. Take the car for a cooling system pressure check to verify the cause of the leak.

 

I Googled sealant being used for this job and it says it shouldn't be used because it can cause leaks. Are you sure about the sealant?

 

Never, ever use sealant on an O-ring if that's what you're thinking. You only use sealer on the gasket and a light coat. You don't want to gob it on or is can block openings.

 

I only use a small amount as lube to keep the o-ring from rolling in its groove. Twisted o-rings can leak.

 

Anyone know how to get to the water pump drain bolt? It's in a space where I might need a special socket or something. I can't think of a way except using one of those twisting sockets, in which I don't have. Only other way is to maybe move the transmission out of the way or something. Always something in the way that adds on a lot of time trying to figure it out 😭

Thanks

Edit: Does it absolutely need to be removed?

 

Removing it helps contain the mess from the antifreeze. Draining the radiator only drains the coolant in the cylinder head and a small portion of the block. The drain plug gets more out of the block. Buy an extension and a universal joint and use one of your sockets. You do not need to remove the exhaust manifold or the transmission.

 

Thanks! I decided I won't remove it, even though I purchased a joint socket set already bit it won't get here until tomorrow. I'll just deal with the mess. Wanna get this over with. Hopefully I can get it done without any problems

 

Was able to get it off with a 1/2 inch (13mm) ratcheting wrench. Was a pain with how tight it was and also being in such a tight and awkward space. Gota a feeling it's gonna be other challenges even though I watched a few vids. But they either had stuff done already or had the engine out of the car. Would you say I'll have to remove the motor mount and raise the engine?

Also, do you have any pointers for when I get to the thermostat part on this year/make/model, as I will be replacing that as well.

Thanks

 

I remove the engine mount and use a piece of wood on a floor jack to support the engine. I remove the bracket that is bolted to the engine that bolts to the mount for access room. You need to remove the plate on the belt end to use the tool that supports the balance shaft chain. These are pretty tight on the belt end. To remove the water pump I start at the thermostat end of the engine. All of that needs to come off to remove the pipe that runs below and behind the exhaust manifold.

 

Would the wear and tear on this thermostat, specifically the little pin hole circled in red, cause a leak to somehow reach the other side of the transfer pipe around the water pump area? I'm thinking no, but just gotta ask. Either way, I'm glad I decided to replace this. It's stock OEM. At least I think it is. I can't remember if I had it replace when I had the water pump and timing chain/components replaced.