Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Water Pump Questions

[surfbeetle]

We were going out of town over the holiday weekend so while we were gone I parked my 95 in the garage where my wife's Nissan is normally parked. Today when I got back I moved the Dodge out and noticed that I had a wet spot on the concrete, not quite as far to the side as where the A/C drains and it also more towards the front. It was a pink color when I wiped it up and at first I was thinking it was power steering. Then I realized where it was coming from and also the fact that I don't have green antifreeze, it's the red crap. (I'm going to change it to green).

I believe it to be the water pump leaking and I have 210,000 miles on it so I figured it was time. Pep Boys had a new Bosch Water Pump for $53. 00 out the door with a lifetime guarantee so I bought that. Is there anything special I need to know about changing out the water pump? I read a bunch a threads and everyone says that it's easy. I just have never done one before.

 

[AEdelheit]

Its easy, drain the coolant, loosen the tensioner, 2 bolts hold it on, I use a little grease on the Oring going back together, I did my thermostat at the same time, good time to check your pulleys and belt while your in there.

 

[surfbeetle]

Since it's at the top of the engine, is there any chance of not draining all or at least not too much of the coolant? I can change the water pump but was planning on having a shop flush it out and change the coolant.

 

[AEdelheit]

well its not on the top of the engine, I belive you will loose atleast 70% of the coolant by changing it sooo out of luck there, sorry!

 

[surfbeetle]

Damn... I guess I need to come up with a different plan. So, How much coolant does it take? Also right now it's a small drip coming from the water pump, and pay day is next week, is it still okay to drive 9 miles each way to work? I guess I really need to keep an eye on the coolant level.

 

[AEdelheit]

Umm, its hard to say if you will be ok or not, should be just keep an eye on it. My truck used 5 gallons when I did it but that was an 04, I would think they should be pretty similar.