How to Install a Water Pump in a Ford Explorer

Raise the hood and use a screwdriver to unscrew the clamp that connects the negative battery cable to the battery post. Position the cable away from the battery post.

Use a jack to elevate the Ford Explorer 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.

Disassemble the parts the lead to the water pump on the Ford Explorer using an adjustable wrench. In order, these include: engine cooling fan, drive belt and any other components like fan shroud and heater hoses. Lay each part out, with its bolts, in the order disconnected.

Move the engine control sensor wires away from the water pump pulley, if needed. Remove the water pump pulley and undo the bolts securing the water pump to the engine. Clean off the mount after removing the pump, using a shop rag. Inspect the area for cracks.

Spread a bead of high temperature automotive sealant on the new water pump, in a position that coordinates to the o-ring groove. Position the o-ring over the sealant on the pump and hold it in place as you mount the new water pump on the side of the Ford Explorer's engine.

Hold the water pump and o-ring in place as you secure it with the new bolts. Tighten the water pump bolts and pulley bolts with a torque wrench to 18 inch pounds torque in any order.

Reassemble the rest of the parts in the order you took them off the Ford Explorer. Replace any parts that appear worn or damaged, if needed. Replace the drain plug and refill the radiator with the amount and type of coolant specified in your owner's manual.

Remove the jack stands and release the jack. Attach the negative battery cable to the post and tighten the screw on the clamp.

Start the engine and check for leaks. Then, close the hood and take the SUV for a test drive.