How to Install a Water Pump in a Dodge Intrepid

Installing a new water pump into a Dodge Intrepid is a do-it-yourself job, if you have the right tools. You'll also need plenty of space in which to work and lay out parts and a moderate amount of mechanical knowledge. By following a few simple instructions, you can install a new water pump and save yourself some money instead of taking it to a shop for repair.

Difficulty: ModerateInstructionsThings You'll Need:

Water pump bolts
O-ring
Torque wrench
Screwdriver
Shop rags

Step 1
Lay out a drop cloth underneath the Dodge Intrepid to protect the floor from coolant spills. Designate an area to lay out each part alongside its bolts and connecting hoses and wires. Use a drop cloth here as well, some of the parts will have traces of grease and coolant.
Step 2
Disconnect the negative battery cable, using a screwdriver to unscrew the clamp that secures the cable to the negative (-) post. Pull the cable away from the battery post.
Step 3
Use a jack to elevate the Dodge Intrepid and jack stands to shore up the jack. Release the pressure in the radiator by removing the cap. Take out the drain plug located underneath the radiator. Catch the coolant in a resealable container
Step 4
Use a grease pencil to mark on the timing belt its position in each pulley before removal. This will save time when reinstalling. If needed, replace the timing belt and skip marking the old one.
Step 1
Locate the water pump on the Dodge Intrepid. It's mounted on the front of the engine block and connected to the radiator and various other parts through a series of hoses. It's rotated by the timing belt. Study these parts, as you'll have to remove them.
Step 2
Disconnect or remove the parts in front of the water pump, using an adjustable wrench. In the most common Dodge Intrepid engine--the 2.7L--you'll find, in order: the upper radiator crossmember, fan module, accessory drive belts, crankshaft damper, timing cover, timing chain and guide wires.
Step 3
Unbolt the water pump from the engine block, using an adjustable wrench. You may have to use a chisel to gently break the seal between the mount and the pump. Discard both the pump and the bolts.
Step 4
Clean off the mounting area with a shop rag.
Step 1
Inspect the new water pump to ensure it's identical to the old pump and free of any metal splinters or debris.
Step 2
Arrange the new water pump on the mount. You won't need sealant for the o-ring on a Dodge Intrepid. Hold the water pump and o-ring in place as you secure it with the new bolts. Tighten them with a torque wrench to 105 inch pounds torque in any order.
Step 3
Install the timing belt and wires, using the grease pencil marks to guide you in installation. Install the rest of the parts in the order removed. The camshaft must be reconnected with a torque wrench at 125 foot pounds torque.
Step 4
Replace the radiator's drain plug and refill the radiator with the amount and type of coolant specified in your owner's manual. Release the jack and jack stands.
Step 5
Attach the negative battery cable to the post and tighten the screw on the clamp. Crank the Dodge Intrepid's engine and check for leaks. Then, close the hood.