Chris Fix demonstrates how to replace a car's water pump, highlighting the cost savings of DIY repairs. He identifies a coolant leak from his dad's car's water pump and outlines the steps to replace it, including removing the battery and belt, draining coolant, and cleaning the gasket surface. With common tools and a new pump, he shows how to install and seal the pump, refill coolant, and bleed air from the system. The process is presented as simple and cost-effective compared to dealership prices.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The water pump in a 2003 Jaguar car was leaking coolant.
2. The leak was coming from the weep hole of the water pump, indicating a bad bearing seal.
3. The local Jaguar dealership quoted $843 to replace the water pump and add new coolant.
4. The replacement water pump cost $40 and came with a gasket.
5. The correct coolant for a 2003 Jaguar is specified in the owner's manual and on the coolant bottle label.
6. The coolant used in this repair was compatible with Jaguars from 1997 and up.
7. The car's cooling system was not drained, but rather a drain pan was used to catch any coolant that might leak out when the water pump was removed.
8. The water pump was removed by taking out the battery and battery box, then removing the belt and pulley.
9. The water pump bolts were removed in a specific order to prevent damage to the engine.
10. A plastic scraper was used to remove old gasket material from the engine surface.
11. A scouring pad was used to clean the engine surface before installing the new water pump.
12. Thread locker was used on the water pump bolts to prevent them from loosening over time.
13. The new water pump was installed by hand-tightening the bolts in a star pattern.
14. The belt was reused, but it was recommended to replace it if it was old.
15. A spill-proof funnel was used to fill the cooling system with coolant.
16. The engine was started and allowed to run for 20 minutes to bleed out any air in the cooling system.
17. The temperature gauge was monitored to ensure the engine did not overheat.
18. The coolant level was checked and topped off as necessary.
19. The old coolant was disposed of by pouring it into a sealed container and taking it to a recycling center.
20. The repair was completed in under an hour and cost less than $60.