Replacing Water Pump in a Chevy Silverado

Tips & Warnings

• Loud noises coming from the cooling system could be a sign that the water pump in your Chevy Silverado needs replacing. A leak in the coolant may also be an indicator.
• Disconnecting the negative battery cable may reset the on-board computer system or parts of the computer system, so be aware that you may have to reset certain settings.
• Never attempt to drain the radiator when the engine to your Chevy Silverado is hot. The steam and the hot coolant within the radiator can cause serious burns.

I recombine replacing all the hoses, belts and thermostat when replacing the water pump since you have to remove them.

Strep 1
Disconnect the negative battery cables and drain the coolant from the radiator. Remove the fan shroud while the coolant is draining.

STEP 2
Remove the serpentine belt and the water pump hoses, which are attached to the water pump.

STEP 3
Loosen and remove the bolts attached to the water pump and cooling fan. Be careful not to cause damage to the radiator while doing so.

STEP4
Remove the cooling fan from the water pump by using a wrench on the cooling fan nut and a strap wrench on the pulley.

STEP5
Attach the thermostat with its housing onto the new water pump. Install the cooling fan onto the new water pump and tighten the bolts lightly.

STEP6
Clean the water pump mating surface on the block with a scouring pad and scraper and install the new water pump, tightening the bolts to spec. Reattach all the hoses to the pump.

STEP7
Reinstall all components in the same order as you removed them.

STEP8
Reconnect the negative battery cable and refill the coolant. Start the engine and check for leaks when it reaches normal operating temperatures.