How to Install a Water Pump in a GMC Sierra

Failing water pumps don't usually announce their wear with massive overheating. The GMC Sierra's pump will first leak from the seals or produce loud noise from the failing bearings. Fortunately, installing a water pump in a Sierra isn't difficult. This project requires plenty of space in which to work and lay out parts and the proper tools.

Difficulty: ModerateInstructionsThings You'll Need:

Water pump
Gasket
Water pump bolts
Torque wrench
Coolant
Screwdriver

Step 1
Use cinder blocks to secure the truck if parked on an incline. Jack up the GMC Sierra, using the jack stands to stabilize the vehicle. Disconnect the negative battery cable by opening the hood and using a screwdriver to unscrew the clamp that connects the negative battery cable to the battery post.
Step 2
Unscrew the radiator cap to release the pressure. Locate the drain plug underneath the radiator, on the right side. Remove it. Catch the coolant in a clean container and immediately clean up any spills.
Step 3
Disconnect the parts leading to the water pump on the GMC Sierra using an adjustable wrench. In the following order, this includes: air outlet ducts, radiator hose (both ends), coolant fan and clutch, drive belt, surge tank hose and heater hose. As you remove each part, lay it out, alongside its bolts, in the order disconnected.
Step 4
Remove the water pump using an adjustable wrench to unbolt the water pump from the block. Take the bolts out in any order. If needed, chisel in the seam between the water pump and the block to separate the two parts.
Step 5
Remove the gasket, which may be in pieces on both the water pump and the Sierra's engine. Wipe the pieces away with a clean shop rag if possible or scrape them away with the chisel if needed.
Step 1
Fit the new gasket onto the new GMC Sierra water pump. Hold the gasket in place as you mount both pieces onto the engine, where the old water pump sat.
Step 2
Set the new bolts carefully into the holes in any order. Many Sierra engines use two rounds of tightening, first with 11 foot pounds of torque and then with 22 foot pounds of torque. Reconnect the rest of the parts in the order you took them off, replacing any worn or damaged parts along the way.
Step 3
Place the drain plug back in the bottom of the radiator. Refill it with coolant as specified in your owner's manual. Screw the radiator cap back on. Then, lower the truck back to the ground, close the hood and clean up any spilled coolant.
Step 4
Replace and tighten the negative battery cable to the post with the screwdriver. Start the GMC Sierra's engine and check for leaks. Don't forget to remove the cinder blocks before driving.