This response provides a general overview. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your Silverado's engine (e.g., 4.3L, 4.8L, 5.3L, 5.7L, 6.0L, etc.) for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams. These manuals are readily available online and at auto parts stores.
Before you begin:
* Gather your tools: This will include various wrenches (metric), sockets, a ratchet, a torque wrench, screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), pliers, a coolant drain pan, new coolant, a new water pump gasket (and possibly a new thermostat, depending on condition), possibly a new serpentine belt and tensioner pulley, and safety glasses/gloves.
* Consult a repair manual: This is crucial for specific steps, torque specs, and diagrams.
* Disconnect the battery negative terminal: This is a critical safety precaution to prevent electrical shorts.
* Let the engine cool completely: Working on a hot engine is dangerous and can cause severe burns.
* Raise and secure the vehicle: Use jack stands for safety. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
General Steps (vary by engine):
1. Drain the coolant: Locate the drain plug on the engine block and drain the coolant into a suitable container.
2. Remove the serpentine belt: Use a belt wrench or appropriate tools to loosen the belt tensioner and remove the serpentine belt.
3. Remove components obstructing access to the water pump: This may involve removing various pulleys, brackets, or hoses depending on your engine. Your repair manual will guide you.
4. Remove the water pump: This usually involves removing bolts securing the pump to the engine block. Be prepared for some coolant leakage.
5. Replace the water pump gasket: Carefully clean the mating surfaces on the engine block and the new water pump. Apply a thin layer of gasket sealant (if specified in your manual) to the new gasket before installing it.
6. Install the new water pump: Carefully align the new water pump and secure it with the correct bolts, tightening them to the specified torque.
7. Reinstall components: Reinstall any pulleys, brackets, or hoses you removed in step 3.
8. Reinstall the serpentine belt: Route the belt correctly around all pulleys and ensure proper tension.
9. Refill the cooling system: Fill the radiator and overflow reservoir with the correct type and amount of coolant (usually a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water).
10. Bleed the cooling system: This is essential to remove air pockets from the system. Refer to your repair manual for the correct bleeding procedure. This usually involves running the engine for a short period and checking for air bubbles in the radiator.
11. Check for leaks: After running the engine, carefully inspect the water pump and surrounding areas for any leaks.
12. Dispose of old coolant properly: Coolant is hazardous waste and should be disposed of according to local regulations.
Important Considerations:
* Thermostat: Consider replacing the thermostat while you're in there, as it's relatively inexpensive and often fails around the same time as the water pump.
* Water Pump Pulley: The pulley on the water pump might be a separate part and need to be transferred to the new pump.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench and adhere to the manufacturer's torque specifications for all bolts to prevent damage.
This is a simplified overview. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 2000 Chevy Silverado's engine for detailed, step-by-step instructions and torque specifications. If you are not comfortable performing this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly replacing a water pump can lead to significant engine damage.
