Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Repair manual specific to your LeBaron's year and engine: Absolutely crucial for accurate steps and torque specs.
* Jack and jack stands: Safety first!
* Wheel chocks: For added safety.
* Sockets and wrenches (metric): A wide range of sizes will be needed.
* Ratchet and extensions: To reach those hard-to-reach bolts.
* Wrench for the fan: May be a special wrench.
* Drain pan: To catch coolant.
* New water pump: Make sure it's the correct one for your vehicle.
* New coolant: Use the correct type specified in your owner's manual.
* Pliers: For various tasks.
* Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead): Possibly needed.
* Gloves: Protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: Protect your eyes.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Jack up the car, secure it on jack stands, and use wheel chocks.
2. Drain the Coolant: Locate the drain plug on the radiator and engine block (if applicable) and carefully drain the coolant into your drain pan.
3. Remove the Fan and Fan Shroud: This often involves removing the fan clutch or bolts securing the fan to the radiator or water pump.
4. Remove the Accessory Belts (if necessary): The water pump may be behind or near the belts, requiring their removal.
5. Remove the Water Pump Pulley (if applicable): Some models have a separate pulley that needs to be removed.
6. Access the Water Pump Bolts: This is often the most difficult part. You may need to remove other components, like the timing belt cover (which is a more advanced task). The bolts securing the water pump are usually located on the engine block.
7. Remove the Water Pump: Carefully remove the bolts and gently pry the old water pump off. Note the orientation of the pump; you'll need to reinstall it the same way. There may be a gasket; replace it with a new one.
8. Install the New Water Pump: Install the new gasket (if applicable), position the new water pump, and carefully bolt it in place. Tighten the bolts to the torque specifications in your repair manual.
9. Reinstall all removed components: Reinstall the pulley, belts, fan, and shroud in reverse order of removal.
10. Refill the Coolant System: Carefully refill the coolant system with the correct type and amount of coolant. Bleed the air from the system according to your repair manual's instructions. This is essential to prevent overheating.
11. Check for Leaks: Start the engine and let it run for a while, checking for leaks around the water pump and other connections.
Warnings:
* Working on your car's cooling system involves hot coolant. Allow the system to cool completely before starting any work.
* Incorrectly tightening bolts can damage the engine block or water pump.
* Improper bleeding of the cooling system can lead to overheating.
* If you're not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. This job can be complicated, and a mistake can cause significant damage.
This is a generalized overview. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year, make, and model. This will provide the most accurate and safe instructions. Improper repair can lead to engine damage.
