How to Install a Water Pump in a Honda Prelude

Lift the hood and disconnect the power to the Honda Prelude. Using a screwdriver, unscrew the clamp that connects the negative battery cable to the battery post. Position the cable away from the battery post. Jack up the car and place jack stands underneath to secure it while working.

Drain the coolant system by first twisting off the radiator's cap slowly to release pressure. Locate the drain plug at the bottom of the radiator, just behind the grill. Place an empty container under the drain plug, remove the plug with an adjustable wrench and drain the radiator.

Use a grease pencil to mark the position of the pulleys on the timing belt. Then, begin taking off the parts leading to the water pump. Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the timing belt and water pump retaining bolts.

Undo the five bolts securing the water pump to the Honda Prelude's engine. Use a chisel to gently pry apart the two pieces.

Remove the gasket, which may be in pieces on both the water pump and the engine. Wipe the pieces away with a clean shop rag, if possible or scrape them away with the chisel, if needed.

Spread a bead of high temperature automotive sealant on the new water pump, in the place where it meets the engine mount. Put 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 Honda Prelude's engine.

Keep the water pump in place as you secure it with five new bolts. Tighten each in any order with 108 inch pounds torque. Reassemble the rest of the parts in the order you took them off the Honda Prelude. Replace any parts that appear worn or damaged as you go.

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 lower the jack. Reconnect the negative battery cable to the post and tighten the screw on the clamp.

Reconnect the radio and input the code. Start the Honda Prelude's engine and check for leaks. Then, close the hood and clean up any spilled coolant.

Dispose of the drained coolant. The old radiator fluid is a hazardous material. You may need to contact your local sanitation department for disposal options.