How to Remove the Water Pump on a 98 Saturn

The water pump on a 1998 Saturn moves coolant throughout the engine block, which makes sure that the engine is kept cool properly. Without it, engine coolant will sit in the engine and get hot, which will eventually lead to an overheating condition. When that happens, you can potentially damage the engine beyond repair. To fix the problem, you have to remove the water pump from the engine and replace it with a new one. This can be done in about an hour.

Instructions

1

Lift up the front end of the Saturn using the jack and put it down onto jack stands. Remove the passenger-side wheel using the tire iron and set it to the side. Remove the plastic splash guard on the inner fender well using the flat-head screwdriver.

2

Pop the hood. Locate the tensioner on the center of the engine. Turn the tensioner using the 3/8-inch breaker bar and a socket and then pull the belt off the water pump pulley and the engine. Apply the penetrating oil to the water pump pulley, then remove it from the engine using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket.

3

Unbolt the water pump from the engine using the 3/8-inch ratchet and socket. Pull the pump and pulley away from the engine and out of the fender well.