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How do you replace the water pump on a 2000 Dodge Caravan?

Tools and Materials Needed:

- New water pump

- Gasket

- Antifreeze/coolant

- Socket set

- Ratchet

- Pliers

- Funnel

- Bucket

- Rags

Instructions:

1. Park the van in a level area. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down. Engage the parking brake.

2. Locate the water pump. It is on the front of the engine, below the timing belt cover.

3. Drain the coolant from the radiator. Place a bucket under the radiator drain plug and open the plug. Allow all of the coolant to drain out.

4. Remove the timing belt cover. There are a number of bolts that hold the cover in place. Remove all of the bolts and set the cover aside.

5. Remove the serpentine belt. The serpentine belt is the long belt that wraps around the water pump, power steering pump, and alternator. Use a ratchet to loosen the tensioner pulley and remove the belt.

6. Remove the water pump bolts. There are typically three bolts that hold the water pump in place. Remove the bolts and set the water pump aside.

7. Clean the water pump mating surface. Use a rag and some degreaser to clean the surface where the water pump mounts to the engine. Be sure to remove all of the old gasket material.

8. Apply a thin coat of sealant to the new water pump gasket. Set the gasket in place on the engine.

9. Install the water pump. Align the water pump with the gasket and slide it into place. Install the bolts and tighten them securely.

10. Reinstall the serpentine belt. Place the belt around the pulleys and use a ratchet to tighten the tensioner pulley.

11. Reinstall the timing belt cover. Install the bolts that hold the cover in place.

12. Fill the radiator with coolant. Open the radiator cap and use a funnel to add coolant to the radiator. Fill the radiator until the coolant level is between the "full" and "add" marks.

13. Start the engine and allow it to warm up. Check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, turn off the engine and top off the coolant level if necessary.

14. Test drive the van. Make sure the van is not overheating and that the water pump is working properly.