Before You Begin:
* Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Coolant is corrosive.
* Gather Tools: You'll need a variety of wrenches (metric), sockets, ratchets, screwdrivers, a coolant drain pan, a new water pump, new gasket(s), possibly new bolts, and potentially a torque wrench.
* Coolant Drain: Drain the engine coolant completely. Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator and the engine block. Let it cool completely before working on it.
* Consult a Repair Manual: This is crucial. The specific procedures vary depending on the engine type (3.8L Series II V6 is most likely).
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Access the Water Pump: This usually involves removing components like the serpentine belt, various pulleys, and possibly the fan shroud or fan. Consult your repair manual for the exact procedure as it will vary slightly depending on your vehicle's configuration. Take pictures as you go to aid reassembly.
2. Remove the Old Water Pump: Disconnect the water pump inlet and outlet hoses. This often involves loosening hose clamps. Remove the bolts holding the water pump to the engine block. These bolts can be stubborn due to corrosion. Use penetrating oil if needed. The pump itself might be slightly stuck due to corrosion; use gentle force and appropriate tools.
3. Clean the Mounting Surface: Carefully clean the mounting surface of both the engine block and the new water pump to ensure a good seal.
4. Install the New Water Pump: Install the new water pump gasket (if applicable) carefully and align the new pump. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque (find this in your repair manual). Avoid over-tightening.
5. Reassembly: Reinstall all removed components in the reverse order of removal, ensuring everything is properly aligned and secured. Reconnect the hoses.
6. Refill and Bleed the Cooling System: Refill the cooling system with the correct type and amount of coolant (check your owner's manual). Bleed the air from the system according to the instructions in your repair manual. This is crucial to prevent overheating. Run the engine for a while to ensure there are no leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Seized Bolts: Be prepared for the possibility of broken or seized bolts. Use penetrating oil liberally and be patient. If a bolt breaks, you might need extraction tools.
* Timing Chain/Belt Interference: Depending on the engine, you might need to loosen or remove the timing chain cover or timing belt. This requires special care and knowledge. If you're not comfortable with this, take it to a mechanic.
* Coolant Type: Use the correct type of coolant for your Buick Riviera.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only. Improperly performing this repair can lead to engine damage or injury. If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Using a repair manual specific to your vehicle is essential for success.
