Q: What are some indications of a failure in the water pump?
A: A faulty water pump can cause engine damage due to overheating. A coolant leak indicates a shaft seal failure in the pump, often visible near the pump. Checking for leaks in the pump's weep holes is possible with a flashlight and mirror. If the pump's shaft bearings fail, a howling sound may be heard, and shaft wear can be felt by moving the pump pulley. Don't confuse drivebelt slippage, which causes a squealing sound, with pump bearing failure. To check pump performance, turn on the heater; a failing pump may not circulate hot water efficiently.
A: To remove a V6 engine, start by draining the cooling system and saving the coolant if it's still in good condition. Loosen the water pump pulley bolts, remove the drivebelt, and then take off the pulley and water pump mounting bolts.