Hi everyone, getting into the 4th gens with both feet.
I am in the middle of a water pump replacement. I moved up from a 3rd gen on which the water pumps are super easy to replace. On the 4th gens you are very space-limited. I did a search and didn't seem to find any tips like this (unless I'm wrong - in which case, mods please merge this thread with the existing one!) I wanted to share three tips that should help you out:
1. Don't try to get the pulley off separate from the pump. Just thread it down even with the pump so it doesn't take up any room.
2. Grind down the outer end of the of the shaft of the new water pump with an angle grinder, file or belt sander. This will give you some more room.
3. Take a pry bar and gently pry the engine away from the passenger side frame rail by prying against the serpentine belt tensioner mounting bolt. This will give you that last bit of room you need to get the old water pump out and the new pump in. The rubber engine mounts can handle the movement just fine. I will post pics once I'm done the job.
I am in the middle of a water pump replacement. I moved up from a 3rd gen on which the water pumps are super easy to replace. On the 4th gens you are very space-limited. I did a search and didn't seem to find any tips like this (unless I'm wrong - in which case, mods please merge this thread with the existing one!) I wanted to share three tips that should help you out:
1. Don't try to get the pulley off separate from the pump. Just thread it down even with the pump so it doesn't take up any room.
2. Grind down the outer end of the of the shaft of the new water pump with an angle grinder, file or belt sander. This will give you some more room.
3. Take a pry bar and gently pry the engine away from the passenger side frame rail by prying against the serpentine belt tensioner mounting bolt. This will give you that last bit of room you need to get the old water pump out and the new pump in. The rubber engine mounts can handle the movement just fine. I will post pics once I'm done the job.