- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Wrench set
- New water pump (including gasket)
- Coolant
- Rags
- Funnel
- Drain pan
Instructions:
1. Park your car on a level surface and allow the engine to cool completely.
2. Locate the water pump. On your 1990 Pontiac Le Mans, it's located on the front of the engine, near the bottom.
3. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will prevent you from getting shocked while replacing the water pump.
4. Drain the coolant. Place a drain pan under the radiator and open the radiator drain plug. Allow all the coolant to drain out.
5. Remove the serpentine belt. The serpentine belt is the one that wraps around the water pump and other accessories on the engine. To remove it, loosen the tensioner pulley and slip the belt off.
6. Remove the water pump bolts. There are four bolts that hold the water pump in place. Remove these bolts using a wrench.
7. Remove the old water pump. Once the bolts are removed, you can pull the old water pump off the engine.
8. Clean the mating surface. Clean the mating surface on the engine where the new water pump will go. Remove any dirt, debris, or old gasket material.
9. Apply a thin layer of sealant to the new water pump gasket. This will help to create a good seal and prevent leaks.
10. Install the new water pump. Place the new water pump in position on the engine and install the bolts. Tighten the bolts snugly.
11. Reconnect the serpentine belt. Slip the serpentine belt back onto the pulleys and tension it properly.
12. Refill the coolant. Open the radiator drain plug and add coolant until the radiator is full.
13. Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
14. Start the engine and check for leaks. Let the engine run for a few minutes and check for any leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the bolts or hose clamps accordingly.
Your water pump is now replaced and your car should be running smoothly.
