How to change water pump on 1996 GMC Jimmy?

[Leonard F]

Hubby is trying to change the water pump on our GMC Jimmy. He cannot get the fan off to access the water pump. What is the trick here? He's trying to do more of the maintenance on our cars to save $$$$ --but it sure is a bear!

 

[epiphaknee]

1. Drain system of coolant, usually removing lower radiator hose.
2. Remove upper fan shroud.
3. Remove serpentine belt.
4. Remove fan clutch. (4) 13 mm bolts. Use two wrenches to break the bolts (one wrench prevents the fan clutch from rotating.
5. Remove pulley at fan clutch.
6. Remove heater hose from water pump.
7. Remove (4) 14 mm bolts from the water pump.
8. Gently, pull water pump away from engine.
9. Clean old gasket off the surface of the engine.
10. Installation, is reverse. Use new gaskets (2) and torque water pump bolts to proper torque. Apply water pump sealer or locktite to waterpump bolts so they will not leak over time.
11. Consider replacing thermostat and heater hose(s) or radiator hose(s) at this time.