How to Replace the Water Pump on a '98 Chevy Cavalier

Your Cavalier's high operating temperatures may be caused by a failing water pump, leaving vital engine components susceptible to further damage. Replacing the water pump on a 1998 Chevrolet Cavalier is a relatively simple task for most backyard mechanics, negating the need to visit an authorized service center and pay a repair bill. Changing the water pump usually takes only an hour or two, as the pump is easily accessible near the top of the engine block.

Instructions

1

Drain the cooling system. Place a large oil drain container under the drain fitting located on the bottom of the radiator. Turn the drain fitting counterclockwise until fluid is draining from the radiator. Use a pair of pliers to turn the drain fitting if you cannot turn it by hand. Turn the fitting clockwise to tighten it after all of the fluid has drained from the radiator.

2

Remove the cooling fan. Disconnect the electrical connection from the fan motor. Remove the bolts holding the fan assembly to the radiator support with a ratchet wrench. Pull the fan assembly up from the engine compartment and remove it.

3

Remove the serpentine belt. Place a wrench over the belt tensioner and rotate the tensioner to release the tension on the belt. Pull the belt off the pulleys and remove it from the vehicle.

4

Remove the water pump pulley. Place a screwdriver behind the pulley to lock it in place while removing the pulley mounting bolts with a ratchet wrench.

5

Disconnect the coolant hoses running to the water pump.

6

Remove the water pump mounting bolts with a ratchet wrench or wrench and remove the water pump from the vehicle.

7

Clean the mating surfaces of the engine block and new water pump with a towel saturated with lacquer thinner.

8

Apply a thin layer of RTV sealer to both sides of the new water pump gasket and place the gasket on the new water pump.

9

Place the water pump against the engine block and finger tighten the water pump mounting bolts to hold the pump in place. Tighten the bolts with a torque wrench to 18 foot-pounds.

10

Place the pulley on the water pump and install the water pump pulley mounting bolts with a ratchet wrench.

11

Attach any hoses previously disconnected from the water pump.

12

Install the serpentine belt. Route the belt over the pulleys according to the routing diagram in the engine compartment. Place a wrench over the belt tensioner and rotate the tensioner to tighten the tension on the belt.

13

Install the cooling fan. Gently lower the cooling fan in position and install the mounting bolts attaching the fan assembly to the radiator support with a ratchet wrench. Attach the electrical connection to the fan motor.

14

Refill the cooling system to the appropriate level, start the vehicle and check for leaks around the water pump.