How do you replace the water pump on a 2000 Ford Taurus?

Answer 1

See "Related Questions" below for more and for Duratec/DOHC engine water pumpsAnswer

Most Taurus's came with either a 3.0 or a 3.8 engine. The water pump replacement is basically the same for both engines. Remove the coolant jug, break loose the bolts on the w/pump pulley, remove the belt, remove the pulley, remove the alternator, remove any tensioners or brackets that hang in the way, remove the bolts holding the water pump to the timing cover, and remove the water pump.

Note: a 3.8 has extra-long water pump bolts that you may have to pull almost all the way out and then bring them out with the water pump assembly.

Helpful hint: Both the 3.0 and 3.8 have 2 motor mounts located on the passenger's side of the vehicle that are held to the subframe by a large nut(aprox 21 or 22mm). One is on the RF corner, the other is back by the firewall under the car on the subframe. If you jack up the car and remove those nuts, the engine can be raised a little using a floorjack with a block of wood under the oil pan to give additional clearance at the fender apron to get the water pump in and out.

After removing the water pump, scrape gasket surface thoroughly, and install new pump. Evenly tighten the bolts, and reassemble the vehicle in the reverse order as disassembly. Fill with new coolant and burp out any air in the system.