How to Install a Water Pump on a 1994 Pontiac Grand Am

When your water pump goes out, it certainly needs attention. It's not a repair that can be put off for very long. When you replace a water pump in your car, always follow the procedures recommended by the manufacturer on installation.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.

2. Clean and dry the mounting surfaces, bolts and bolt holes. You need to remove corrosion and sealant. Use new sealing ring and gasket.

3. Position the water pump to the engine block until it's sealed. Hand-tighten the bolts in a staggered sequence.

4. Check the pump to make sure it rotates freely. You can crack the pump housing if it's too tight. Then, you attach the hose to it.

5. Fasten the timing belt rear protective cover. Then, you install the timing belt and adjust the tension.

6. Tighten the water pump bolts. Use a torque wrench set to the specifications, 18 ft. lbs.

7. Install the timing belt cover and related parts. Then, you can reconnect the negative battery cable.

8. Fill the cooling system and check for leaks. Start the engine and run to the normal operating temperature. Then, you need to re-check for leaks and top-off the coolant.

Tips & Warnings

• If your water pump runs off the timing belt, it's recommended that you replace the timing belt when you change the water pump.
• Since anti-freeze can be slippery, you should always wipe up any coolant that spills immediately to prevent injuries.

Resources

• Auto Zone's vehicle repair guides can help.