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How do you replace the water pump on a 1987 Ford Aerostar 6 cylinder?

Tools and Materials Needed

* Replacement water pump

* Water pump gasket

* Thermostat and housing gasket (optional)

* Coolant

* Funnel

* Screwdrivers

* Wrenches

* Pliers

* Jack and jack stands

Note: Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent any electrical shock.

1. Locate the water pump. The water pump is located on the front of the engine, near the bottom. It is a round, metal object with a pulley attached to it.

2. Drain the coolant. Place a drain pan under the radiator and open the draincock. Allow all the coolant to drain out.

3. Remove the fan and fan clutch. Removing the fan is required to access the water pump. The fan clutch is located on the front of the engine. It is a large, metal disc with several blades. Use a wrench to loosen the bolts that hold the fan clutch on the water pump. Then use a fan clutch wrench to remove the fan clutch.

4. Remove the accessory drive belt. The accessory drive belt is located around the pulleys of the water pump and other engine components. Use a wrench to loosen the tensioner pulley. Then remove the belt.

5. Disconnect the coolant hoses. There are two coolant hoses connected to the water pump. Use a wrench to loosen the hose clamps. Then remove the hoses.

6. Remove the water pump bolts. There are four bolts that hold the water pump on the engine. Use a wrench to remove these bolts.

7. Remove the old water pump. Carefully remove the old water pump from the engine. Be careful not to damage any of the surrounding parts.

8. Install the new water pump gasket. Place the new water pump gasket on the engine block. Make sure the gasket is properly aligned.

9. Install the new water pump. Carefully place the new water pump in position on the engine. Make sure the gasket is properly seated.

10. Install the water pump bolts. Tighten the water pump bolts to the proper torque.

11. Reconnect the coolant hoses. Attach the two coolant hoses to the water pump. Secure them with the hose clamps.

12. Install the accessory drive belt. Place the accessory drive belt around the pulleys of the water pump and other engine components. Tighten the tensioner pulley.

13. Install the fan and fan clutch. Place the fan clutch on the water pump and tighten the bolts. Then install the fan.

14. Fill the coolant system. Add coolant to the radiator until it reaches the "full" mark on the reservoir.

15. Connect the negative terminal of the battery

Test the water pump. Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check the water level and look for any leaks.