[Rudi]

So after hearing that it would cost $600 to replace a $50 water pump, I've decided to do it myself.

How hard is this replacement to do and how long would it take? Could I find some instructions somewhere and pull it off?

Any info appreciated

Thanks

[JeepCrazyKid]

It's an easy job.

Basic instructions:
Drain the cooling system
Remove the drive belt
Unbolt the water pump.

I can give you more specific instructions if I knew what year and what engine do you had.

[redrockyj]

I think this will help a little bit. Stu's site is always a good help.
http://www.stu-offroad.com/radiator/radiator-4.htm

[JSBlu974X4]

took myself about 45 min to do

[wayoflife]

Originally Posted by redrockyj

I think this will help a little bit. Stu's site is always a good help.
http://www.stu-offroad.com/radiator/radiator-4.htm

actually, depends on year. stu's write-up will take care of a 97-99 TJ with a 4.0L (probably even a 2.5L) and this write-up will help you out if you have a 2000+ TJ with a 4.0L

Replacing Your Jeep TJ 2000+ 4.0L Waterpump

[Jerry Bransford]

Do avoid those cheap waterpumps that push their "lifetime warranty". It's well worth paying more to get the much better quality OE water pump. I replaced mine last summer and I first bought the $50 lifetime waterpump and it was a joke. It weighed half as much as my old water pump and it was cheap stamped steel so I took it back and got a refund, then bought the OE water pump. I think it was only $35 more and well worth it. I'd rather not rely on free replacement water pumps under warranty for the future if I have to replace them 2X or 3X as often.

[Niles]

Mine went up in the middle of a cold snap, it was too cold out to even consider doing it myself. Shoulda thought twice though. Took it to a repair guy who I thought was honest. He put on an OEM one, but hosed me on the labor. While he was in there, he replaced the lower hoses as well, but hit me for full labor on the install of the hoses even though he already had to taken them off to do the water pump. My bill came to $350.00 2 1/2 hours of labor @ $50 per plus and additional 1 1/2 for the hoses and 5 clamps @ 2 bucks per plus antifreeze ect. If I had known, I would have braved to cold slop with busted knuckles ( I always tear my hands up working in real cold temps) ect and done it myself. I will never learn. I could have had that $$ towards a Dana 44.

[208k]

how can u test ur pump?

[wherndon]

Originally Posted by 208k

how can u test ur pump?

with the engine COLD remove the radiator cap and crank it up. When it reachs the proper operating temp. you should ba able to see the water circulating inside the radiator.

Originally Posted by Niles

If I had known, I would have braved to cold slop with busted knuckles ( I always tear my hands up working in real cold temps) ect and done it myself. I will never learn. I could have had that $$ towards a Dana 44.

I used to bust knuckles all the time. Then one day I found out about mechanic's gloves. Matco makes some nice ones, and they come in different colors.

[Niles]

Mechanics gloves huh? I never thought about that. Makes sense though. I and my knuckles thank you. I'll get some to keep around. Never know when you'll need them.

[BigWaylon]

Originally Posted by Rudi

So after hearing that it would cost $600 to replace a $50 water pump, I've decided to do it myself.

How hard is this replacement to do and how long would it take? Could I find some instructions somewhere and pull it off?

Any info appreciated

Thanks

$600? that's robbery!!

the pump went out on our '99 as we pulled into the parking lot at our resort at Disney...

I had no tools, and decided I wasn't working on it while I was on vacation...

the book labor was less than 2 hours...probably $150 or so at most shops...

no idea what they're charging you for to get to $600...unless the pump is gold plated...

Greg