Ford FOAZ-8501-A Water Pump Assembly

To check a water pump, warm up the engine and squeeze the upper radiator hose. A pressure surge indicates a working pump. Look for coolant leaks from the pump's weep hole, which suggest immediate replacement to avoid shaft bearing failure. Listen for noise from the pump during operation, as this also indicates bearing failure and need for replacement. Check for bearing wear by trying to move the pump pulley; any movement means the pump should be replaced.

Removal begins with disconnecting the cable from the negative battery terminal. With the engine cold, drain the cooling system. Remove the fan shroud and the fan assembly. Remove the drive belt(s) and remove the water pump pulley. On 5.0L engines, if the power steering pump bracket is retained at the water pump, the power steering pump should be completely removed and laid to one side to facilitate removal of the bracket. On 5.0L engines equipped with air conditioning, remove the idler pulley and bracket assembly. Remove any accessory brackets that attach to the water pump. On 5.0L engines, remove the lower radiator hose, the heater hose, and the bypass hose from the water pump. Remove the water pump retaining bolts and remove the water pump. On 5.0L engines, take note of the installed positions of the various length bolts. Before installation, remove and clean all gasket or sealant material from the water pump, cylinder front cover, or cylinder block. On 4.6L engines, inspect the O-ring and sealing surface of water pump housing in the block for dirt or debris. Clean thoroughly before reassembly. On 5.0L engines, position new gaskets on the water pump and coat them on both sides with RTV sealant. On 4.6L engines, lubricate a new O-ring seal with clean antifreeze and install it to the water pump. Install the water pump and tighten the bolts. On 5.0L engines, it may be necessary to transfer some hose ports or fittings from the old pump if you are replacing it with a new one. On 5.0L engines, install the lower radiator hose, heater hose, and bypass hose to the water pump. Replace the hose clamps with new, if necessary. Install the remaining components to the water pump and engine in the reverse order of removal. Fill the cooling system with the proper coolant mixture. Start the engine and make sure there are no leaks. Check the level frequently during the first few weeks of operation to ensure there are no leaks and that the level in the system is stable.

Remove any accessory brackets attached to the water pump.