How do you replace the water pump on a 1998 Buick?

Answer 1

First, be prepared to spend more time than you expect!! You will need both inch size and metric wrenches, along with a 1/2" box wrench. On the 3.8 L engine, the engine mounting bracket may have to be loosened to allow you to pull the pulley out off the front of the pump. First, remove the battery, and set to one side. Next, loosen the 4 screws on the front of the water pump pulley. Next, you need to use a socket wrench with a long handle and untension the idler pulley from the belt, so you can remove the serpentine belt from the front of the motor. After removing the belt, you will use a deep socket and unscrew the two bolts which hold the power steering pump in place. You access the top and bottom bolts through the holes in the pulley. After removing the Power Steering pump, you should take the pulley off the front of the water pump, and you may find it is a very tight fit. between the motor bracket and the font of the motor. After removing the pulley, you will have access to all the screws on the pump, and can use a socket wrench on all but the top front one under the engine bracket, for which you need the 1/2" box wrench. It is a much longer job than you would expect, so allow plenty of time! Dudley Bogart