How do you replace the water pump on a 1996 Subaru Legacy?

Answer 1

Replacing the water pump on a Legacy motor is fairly easy-- you just unbolt the old one, clean the gasket surface on the block, and bolt the new one on. Ummm, what makes this job tougher is you must remove the timing belt to access the water pump, as the timing belt drives the water pump. This then is a grand time to replace your timing belt while you are at it. Both these jobs (the timing belt and the water pump) require precision and attention to detail. Make sure to refill the radiator several times before firing the engine up, and recheck it once the thermostat has opened, then engine cooled. Legacy's make dandy air pockets in their cooling systems-- these pockets purge out when thermostat opens, then you are low on coolant.