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How do you replace the water pump on a 1997 Chrysler Concorde 3.5L?

Tools and Materials Needed:

- Replacement water pump

- New or properly cleaned water pump gasket

- New serpentine belt

- Coolant

- Funnel

- Screwdriver

- 5/8-inch socket wrench

- 10 mm socket wrench

- 15 mm socket wrench

- Water pump pliers

- Rags

- Safety glasses

- Gloves

Instructions:

1. Park your car on a level surface and allow the engine to cool down completely. Turn off the engine and wait at least 30 minutes before proceeding.

2. Locate the water pump. The water pump is usually located on the front of the engine, near the bottom. It is typically made of metal and has a pulley attached to it.

3. Remove the serpentine belt. The serpentine belt is the long belt that wraps around the water pump, crankshaft, and alternator. Use a 5/8-inch socket wrench to loosen the tensioner pulley and remove the belt.

4. Drain the coolant. Place a drain pan under the radiator and open the drain plug. Allow all of the coolant to drain out.

5. Remove the old water pump. Use a 10 mm socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the water pump in place. Be careful not to drop the bolts into the engine.

6. Clean the water pump mating surfaces. Use a rag to clean the surfaces of the engine and water pump where the gasket will be installed. Make sure that all of the old gasket material is removed.

7. Install the new water pump gasket. Place the new gasket on the water pump and make sure that it is properly aligned.

8. Install the new water pump. Place the new water pump in position and install the bolts. Tighten the bolts in a crisscross pattern to evenly distribute the pressure.

9. Reinstall the serpentine belt. Use a 5/8-inch socket wrench to tighten the tensioner pulley and reinstall the serpentine belt.

10. Add coolant. Use a funnel to add coolant to the radiator. Fill the radiator until the coolant level reaches the "Full" mark.

11. Start the engine and check for leaks. Allow the engine to run for a few minutes and check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, turn off the engine and allow it to cool down.

Tips:

- Make sure that you have all of the necessary tools and materials before starting the job.

- Be careful not to drop any of the bolts into the engine.

- If you are uncomfortable performing this repair, you can take your car to a qualified mechanic.