Tools and Materials Needed:
- Replacement water pump
- New Water Pump Gasket
- New Thermostat (recommended)
- Coolant (compatible with your Accord)
- Socket set
- Wrench set
- Flat head screwdriver
- Pliers
- Coolant drain pan
- Funnel
- Rags
Procedure:
1. Prepare Your Car:
- Allow the engine to cool down completely.
- Park your Accord on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Drain the Coolant:
- Locate the coolant drain cock or plug, which is usually at the bottom of the radiator.
- Place the coolant drain pan underneath the drain cock.
- Open the drain cock to drain the old coolant.
3. Remove the Drive Belt:
- Locate the drive belt that runs around the water pump pulley.
- Loosen the belt tensioner using a wrench or socket wrench.
- Remove the belt by sliding it off the pulleys.
4. Disconnect the Radiator Hoses:
- There will be one upper radiator hose and one lower radiator hose connected to the water pump.
- Use a screwdriver or pliers to release the hose clamps.
- Carefully remove the hoses from the water pump.
5. Remove the Thermostat Housing (Optional):
- If you're also replacing the thermostat, now is a good time to do so.
- Remove the bolts holding the thermostat housing to the engine block.
- Carefully lift off the housing and remove the old thermostat.
6. Remove the Water Pump Bolts:
- Locate the bolts that hold the water pump to the engine block.
- Use the appropriate wrench or socket wrench to loosen the bolts.
- Remove the bolts and carefully separate the water pump from the engine block.
7. Remove the Old Water Pump Gasket:
- Use a flathead screwdriver to gently scrape off the old water pump gasket from the mating surfaces on the engine block and water pump.
8. Install the New Water Pump Gasket:
- Place the new water pump gasket onto the mating surface of the engine block.
- Make sure the gasket is properly aligned and seated.
9. Install the New Water Pump:
- Position the new water pump onto the engine block, aligning it with the gasket.
- Insert and hand-tighten the water pump bolts.
- Use the wrench or socket wrench to tighten the bolts in a criss-cross pattern to an appropriate torque (refer to your car's repair manual for the specified torque).
10. Reconnect the Radiator Hoses:
- Reinstall the upper and lower radiator hoses to the water pump.
- Secure them with the hose clamps.
11. Replace the Thermostat (if applicable):
- If you removed the thermostat earlier, install the new thermostat and the housing.
- Secure it with the bolts and tighten them to the specified torque.
12. Install the Drive Belt:
- Place the drive belt back onto the pulleys.
- Tighten the belt tensioner to ensure proper tension.
13. Refill Coolant:
- Mix coolant with water according to the recommended ratio specified in your car's owner's manual.
- Use a funnel to pour the coolant mixture into the radiator.
- Continue adding coolant until it reaches the "Full" mark on the coolant reservoir or radiator.
14. Test the System:
- Close the coolant drain cock or plug.
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, observing for any leaks around the water pump and hoses.
15. Check Coolant Level:
- After the engine has cooled down, recheck the coolant level.
- If necessary, add more coolant to bring it to the recommended level.
Note:
- It's important to be cautious when handling coolant as it can be toxic.
- If you're unsure about any step of the process, it's best to consult a professional mechanic or refer to the vehicle-specific repair manual for detailed instructions.
