How to Change the Water Pump on a Jeep

The water pump is responsible for circulating the coolant throughout the engine. A worn-out water pump will eventually cause major damage to the engine due to overheating. Many times, the water-pump bearing wears out, which causes coolant to leak from the pump. This is a sign that the water pump needs to be replaced. This job can be done in your driveway by following these steps.

Instructions

Water Pump Removal

1

Park the vehicle and allow the engine to cool.

2

Place a drain pan underneath the radiator and remove the drain plug located on the bottom of the radiator. This will drain out the old coolant.

3

Loosen the tensioner pulley on the serpentine belt and remove the belt and set it aside.

4

Remove the clamp on each hose feeding in and out of the water pump with vise grips. Gently pull the hoses off the pump. Coolant will leak out of the hoses.

5

Remove the four bolts fastening the pump to the engine block. Remove the water pump from the vehicle.

Installing the New Water Pump

6

Clean the old gasket from the engine block to ensure a leak-free seal.

7

Attach a new gasket to the new water pump and install using the four bolts. Install each hose using vise grips.

8

Install the serpentine belt and adjust the tensioner to the manufacturer's specifications for your model Jeep.

9

Install the drain plug in the radiator. Fill the radiator with coolant. Start the vehicle and allow it to run until warm. Inspect for any leaks in the cooling system.