Tools and Materials You'll Need:
* Repair Manual: Absolutely essential for specific procedures and torque specs.
* Jack and Jack Stands: Securely support the vehicle.
* Wheel Chocks: For added safety.
* Socket Set (metric): Various sizes, including deep sockets.
* Wrench Set (metric): Various sizes.
* Pliers: Several types (needle-nose, slip-joint).
* Screwdrivers: Phillips and flathead.
* New Water Pump: Ensure you get the correct replacement part for your specific Festiva engine.
* New Thermostat (recommended): While not strictly required, it's a good idea to replace it since you're already in there.
* New Gasket(s): For the water pump and possibly the thermostat housing.
* Coolant: The correct type for your engine (check your owner's manual).
* Drain Pan: To catch the coolant.
* Funnel: For refilling the coolant.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes.
* Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification to prevent leaks and damage.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Make sure the engine is completely cool before starting.
2. Drain the Coolant: Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator and carefully drain the coolant into your drain pan.
3. Access the Water Pump: This usually involves removing various components like the fan, fan shroud, belts, and potentially parts of the timing belt cover (depending on the engine's placement). This step is highly dependent on your specific engine and access. Your repair manual will be crucial here.
4. Remove the Old Water Pump: Disconnect the hoses connected to the water pump. Remove the bolts securing the water pump to the engine block. This often requires careful maneuvering and may involve using penetrating oil to loosen stubborn bolts.
5. Install the New Water Pump: Carefully clean the mating surfaces of the engine block and the new water pump. Install the new gasket (if applicable) and carefully install the new water pump, ensuring it's properly seated. Tighten the bolts to the specifications in your repair manual using a torque wrench.
6. Reconnect Hoses and Components: Reinstall all the components you removed earlier, including the belts, fan, and fan shroud.
7. Refill the Coolant System: Carefully add the correct type and amount of coolant to the radiator and reservoir.
8. Bleed the Air from the Cooling System: Run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the coolant. Check for leaks and top off the coolant as needed. Consult your repair manual for the proper bleeding procedure.
9. Test the System: Run the engine for a longer period, checking for leaks and overheating.
Important Considerations:
* Timing Belt: On some Festiva engines, the water pump is driven by the timing belt. If this is the case, you may need to replace the timing belt as well. This is a significantly more complex task.
* Difficult Access: The engine bay in a Festiva is relatively cramped, making this job more challenging than in some other vehicles.
* Torque Specifications: Using the correct torque settings is crucial to avoid damaging the engine block or the water pump.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable with any of these steps, it's best to seek professional help from a qualified mechanic.
This is a complex repair. Do not attempt this repair without a detailed repair manual for your specific 1989 Ford Festiva and the appropriate tools. Failure to follow proper procedures can lead to engine damage.
