To remove the water pump, start by disconnecting the negative battery cable and draining the cooling system. For 2007 and earlier models with a 3.5L V6 engine, disconnect and set aside the thermostat housing and bypass tube coolant hose, remove the thermostat housing mounting bolts, and position it aside. Next, disconnect the water pump coolant hose and move it aside, followed by removing the water pump mounting bolts. Unscrew and remove the center mounting bolt from the water pump, discarding the center water pump mounting bolt sealing washer. Remove the water pump, ensuring all traces of gasket and sealant are cleaned from the mating surfaces on both the water pump and the engine. On 2008 and later models with the same engine, where the water pump is driven by the timing chain, you'll need to remove the timing chain to access the water pump. For 2.0L four-cylinder engines, remember to cover the accessory drive belt with plastic to prevent coolant spillage. Proceed by removing the water pump pulley bolts, separating the pulley from the water pump, and then removing the water pump itself, tapping it gently with a soft face hammer if stuck. Make sure to remove all old gasket material. When installing the new water pump, compare it to the old one for compatibility, replace all old gaskets and O-rings with new ones, and apply a thin film of RTV sealant to secure the new gaskets and O-rings, coating them with clean coolant. Ensure proper positioning of the gasket on the water pump and clean mating surfaces before mating the pump to the water pump housing. For 2007 and earlier 3.5L V6 models, tighten the water pump mounting bolts in the specified sequence and torque. On 2008 and later 3.5L V6 models, ensure any accumulated coolant in the oil pan is completely drained and clean spilled coolant on the engine and oil pan. Tighten the water pump bolts as directed, either to specified torque or an additional 45 degrees, depending on the engine model. For all other models, install the water pump bolts and tighten them to the specified torque. Complete the installation by following the reverse order of removal steps, refill and bleed the cooling system, and finally, run the engine while checking for leaks.
Posted by FordPartsGiant Specialist