Here's a *general* outline of the steps involved, but remember this is not a complete or precise guide:
1. Preparation:
* Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area.
* Gather Tools & Parts: You'll need a complete set of metric sockets and wrenches, various pliers, screwdrivers, a torque wrench, a drain pan, jack stands, a shop manual, new oil pump, new oil filter, new oil, new gasket(s), and potentially a new oil pump pickup tube.
* Consult Repair Manual: Obtain a repair manual specific to your 1997 Chevrolet Malibu and its engine. This is crucial. This manual will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
2. Vehicle Preparation:
* Raise and Secure: Safely raise the vehicle using jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Drain Oil: Drain the engine oil into a suitable drain pan.
3. Accessing the Oil Pump:
* This is the most engine-specific part: You'll need to remove various components to access the oil pump. This often involves removing the oil pan, which may require disconnecting various components like exhaust components, possibly the steering rack (depending on the engine), and other parts near the oil pan. Your repair manual will detail the exact steps.
4. Oil Pump Removal and Installation:
* Remove Oil Pan: Carefully remove the oil pan, taking note of the gasket.
* Remove Oil Pump: The oil pump is usually bolted to the oil pan. Remove the bolts carefully. The pump itself may be attached to the pickup tube.
* Inspect Parts: Inspect the oil pump and pickup tube for any damage or wear. Replace if necessary.
* Install New Oil Pump: Install the new oil pump and pickup tube (if replacing it), ensuring a proper seal with the new gasket(s).
* Reinstall Oil Pan: Carefully reinstall the oil pan with a new gasket, ensuring the gasket is properly seated and the bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications (consult your repair manual).
5. Reassembly:
* Reinstall all components removed to access the oil pump, following the reverse order of removal. Pay close attention to proper torque specifications for all bolts.
6. Final Steps:
* Refill Oil: Add the correct amount and type of engine oil (check your owner's manual).
* Replace Oil Filter: Install a new oil filter.
* Check Oil Level: Check the oil level and add more oil if necessary.
* Start Engine: Start the engine and check for leaks. Let the engine run for a few minutes, then check the oil level again.
* Dispose of Used Oil Properly: Dispose of the used oil properly according to local regulations.
Disclaimer: This is a highly simplified overview. Attempting this repair without experience and a detailed repair manual is strongly discouraged. Incorrectly installing the oil pump can lead to serious engine damage. If you are not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. The cost of a professional repair is far less than the cost of engine damage caused by an incorrectly installed oil pump.
