Tools You'll Need:
* Repair Manual: Crucial for specific torque specifications and diagrams.
* Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safe vehicle lifting.
* Wheel Chocks: For added safety.
* Socket Set and Wrenches: Various sizes, including metric.
* Ratchet and Extensions: For reaching hard-to-access bolts.
* Torque Wrench: Absolutely necessary to avoid over-tightening bolts.
* Drain Pan: To catch coolant.
* New Water Pump: Ensure it's the correct one for your engine.
* New Thermostat (recommended): Since you're already in there, replacing the thermostat is a good preventative measure.
* New Coolant: Use the correct type for your vehicle.
* Pliers: For various tasks, such as hose clamps.
* Flathead and Phillips Screwdrivers: Possibly needed.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
Procedure (General Steps - Refer to your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Raise the vehicle securely using a jack and jack stands, and chock the wheels.
2. Drain the Coolant: Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator and carefully drain the coolant into your drain pan.
3. Remove Accessory Belts: Loosen the tensioner to remove the serpentine belt(s). This will give you access to the water pump.
4. Remove Fan and Fan Shroud (if applicable): This may involve removing some bolts or fasteners.
5. Disconnect Hoses: Disconnect the upper and lower radiator hoses from the water pump. Be prepared for some coolant spillage.
6. Remove Water Pump Pulley (if applicable): This might require a special puller tool.
7. Remove Water Pump Bolts: Carefully remove the bolts securing the water pump to the engine block.
8. Remove the Water Pump: Gently pry the old water pump off the engine block. Be mindful of the gasket.
9. Clean the Mounting Surface: Thoroughly clean the mating surfaces on both the engine block and the new water pump to ensure a proper seal.
10. Install New Water Pump: Apply a thin layer of gasket sealant (if required, check your manual) to the new water pump gasket and carefully install the new water pump. Tighten the bolts to the specified torque in your repair manual. Do not overtighten!
11. Install Pulley (if applicable): Reinstall the water pump pulley.
12. Reconnect Hoses: Reconnect the upper and lower radiator hoses.
13. Reinstall Fan and Shroud (if applicable): Carefully reattach the fan and shroud.
14. Reinstall Accessory Belts: Reinstall the serpentine belt(s), ensuring proper tension.
15. Refill Coolant: Refill the cooling system with the correct type and amount of coolant. Consult your owner's manual for the proper coolant type and mixture ratio.
16. Bleed the Cooling System: Start the engine and let it run until the thermostat opens. This will allow air bubbles to escape. Check for leaks. Top off coolant as needed.
17. Check for Leaks: After running the engine for a while, inspect for any leaks around the water pump and hoses.
18. Lower Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: This is not a substitute for a repair manual. Obtain one specific to your 1998 Chevy Cavalier.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench and adhere strictly to the torque specifications in your repair manual.
* Coolant Type: Use the correct type of coolant for your vehicle.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable performing this repair, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
This is a complex repair with the potential for serious engine damage if not done correctly. If you are unsure about any step, seek professional assistance. Safety is paramount.
