My daughters 97 SCII (DHOC) is leaking some antifreeze and I suspect it's the water pump (original, 155K miles). I've replaced a number of water pumps in the last 50 years but this one looks it could be a pain because of clearances. Could someone give me the basics of replacement? Anyone know typical shop charge? Tnx Jim H.
I looked it over in my GM dealer manual and it does not look to hatefull if you are so inclined. Basically drain coolant, jack up vehicle and remove right front tire and then remove splash shields to access the side of the engine were pump it at and it should come out pretty easy after obtaining acces to it and removing the drive belt.
Thanks SnoMan. I'm not inclined but I might do it anyway. I was afraid I might have to remove the motor mount. ( She's a social worker plus she has college loans to repay so she doesn't have a lot of money.) Jim H.
I just put a pump on my '96 SL, here is what I posted last week; I was able to do the whole job from the top. I pulled the coolant tank, window washer tank, and disconected two coolant hoses and folded them out of the way. also pulled the A/C compressor out of the mounting brackets and set it out of the way, but left the brackets in place. I almost couldn't get the three bolts off the water pump pulley, but then remembered the old trick of wedging a flat bar on the two other bolt heads to pull against. Also had to use 6 point sockets (the hex heads seem kinda sloppy) and just the right amount of extension to get to the pump bolts but still clear the chassis. Larry
You could do it from the top but if you jack it up and remove wheel and splash shieds it would be a lot easier. My daughter has a 97 SC2 and after looking at it I agree with tthis method as being the best one.
Thanks Larry & SnoMan, for the extra information. I've looked at it again and I think I'll wait until we get some estimates to have it done by a mechanic. I assume the belt tension pully is spring loaded and I don't have a box end long enough to get on the bolt head and not room for a socket -- if that's the way to relieve the pressure (I should have the book). And, at almost 68, I get discouraged easier on these jobs. Tnx again. Jim H.
I understand but you might pick up a wrench at a tool store of harbor frieght even if you do not do the job and keep it in the car with a extra used belt so that if one ever snaps on you you can easily replace it if need be. (better than walking)
