How to Replace the Water Pump on a 1996 Mazda 626

The water pump on the 1996 Mazda 626 is what circulates the coolant through the engine and helps to keep it operating within normal temperature ranges. A bad water pump will cause the engine to overheat. You should replace it at the first sign of trouble or you risk the car breaking down. If you allow the car to get too hot, you could wind up blowing the head gasket, a repair much more difficult to make than simply installing a new water pump.

Instructions

1

Disconnect the negative battery terminal.

2

Drain the engine coolant into a proper receptacle.

3

Remove the timing belt covers using the proper socket and ratchet.

4

Remove the timing belt from the pulleys by slipping it off.

5

Disconnect the coolant intake pipe and gasket using the proper wrench.

6

Remove the timing belt idler pulleys still attached to the water pump using the proper wrench.

7

Remove the water pump mounting bolts using the proper socket and ratchet and pull the water pump off.

8

Clean the gasket mating surfaces using the scraper tool.

9

Install the rubber seal on the new water pump.

10

Install the new water pump on the engine using a new gasket and tighten the bolts with the proper socket and ratchet.

11

Install the timing belt idler pulleys to the water pump using the proper wrench.

12

Install the coolant inlet pipe with a new gasket using the proper wrench.

13

Reinstall the timing belt and the timing belt covers using the proper socket and ratchet.

14

Refill the coolant system and then reattach the negative terminal to the battery.

15

Start the car and check for leaks thoroughly.