Pontiac 19209288 Engine Coolant Pump Kit

A failure in the water pump can cause serious engine damage due to overheating as the pump will not be able to circulate cooled water through the engine. There are three ways in which to check the operation of the water pump while it is still installed on the engine. If the pump is suspect, it should be replaced with a new or factory-rebuilt unit. With the engine warmed up to normal operating temperature, squeeze the upper radiator hose. If the water pump is working properly, a pressure surge should be felt as the hose is released. Water pumps are equipped with 'weep' or vent holes, out of which water leaks when the internal bladder has failed. If a failure occurs to the bladder of the pump, small amounts of water will leak from these 'weep' holes. In most cases, it will be necessary to use a flashlight from under the car to see evidence of leakage from this point in the pump body. If the water pump shaft bearings fail there may be a squealing sound at the front of the engine while it is running. Shaft wear can be felt if the water pump pulley is forced up and down. Do not mistake drive belt slippage, which also causes a squealing sound, for water pump failure.

To replace the fuel pump/sending unit assembly, start by relieving the fuel pressure and disconnecting the negative battery terminal. Remove the fuel tank or access cover from the trunk floor pan, depending on the model year. The assembly is held in place by a cam lock ring mechanism. Unlock the assembly by turning the inner ring clockwise or tapping the lock ring counterclockwise. Carefully remove the assembly from the tank, being cautious of the fuel level float and sending unit. Check the condition of the rubber O-ring and replace if necessary. Inspect and clean the filter on the fuel pump. If needed, separate the fuel pump and sending unit, being careful not to damage the rubber insulator and fuel strainer. To install, position the rubber gasket around the tank opening and guide the assembly into the tank. Turn the inner lock ring counterclockwise until the locking cams are engaged. Finally, reinstall the fuel tank or the fuel pump access cover.

Loosen and remove all drivebelts from the water pump pulley.

Remove the water pump cover-to-cylinder block bolts. On 3.1L engines, remove the small belt guard just above the water pump.

With the engine running at normal operating temperature, squeeze the upper radiator hose. If the water pump is working properly, a pressure surge should be felt as the hose is released.

This is for the 3.8L engine