Chevrolet 89017269 Water Pump Kit

Water pump failure can result in engine overheating. To check its operation:With the engine at normal temperature, squeeze the upper radiator hose. A working pump produces a pressure surge upon hose release. Be cautious of fan blades.Inspect the pump's weep hole for coolant leaks, signaling a seal failure. A flashlight may be needed to locate the hole.Listen for a howling noise from the drivebelt area, indicating bearing failure. Rock the pump pulley to feel for shaft wear. Don't confuse drivebelt squealing with bearing issues.

There are three ways to check the operation of the water pump while it is still installed on the engine. One way is to squeeze the upper radiator hose when the engine is warmed up to normal operating temperature. If the water pump is working properly, a pressure surge should be felt as the hose is released. Another way is to look for water leaks from the 'weep' or vent holes on the water pump. These holes release water when the internal bladder of the pump has failed. It may be necessary to use a flashlight from under the car to see evidence of leakage. The third way is to listen for a squealing sound at the front of the engine while it is running, which could indicate a failure in the water pump shaft bearings. Additionally, shaft wear can be felt by forcing the water pump pulley up and down.

The thermostatic fan clutch must remain in the "in car" position.

To perform a quick water pump performance check, turn the heater on. If the pump is failing, it might not be able to efficiently circulate hot water all the way to the heater core as it should.

Reinstall the fuel tank or the fuel pump access cover.

Remove the pulley and water pump mounting bolts.

Remove the radiator outlet pipe-to-radiator pump cover bolts, leaving the lower radiator hose attached. Pull down on the radiator outlet pipe to disengage it from the water pump and detach the pipe from the oil pan and transaxle.