Repair 7

How to Replace the Water Pump for My 98 Jimmy

The Jimmy is a mid-size sport utility vehicle made by GMC from 1983 to 2005. The models made from 1995 to 2005 belong to the second generation of the GMC Jimmy and are virtually identical to the Chevrolet Blazer. The 1998 GMC Jimmy has a water pump that the engine powers with a belt. It circulates coolant from the radiator to the engine to prevent the engine from overheating. You can access the water pump in the 1998 GMC Jimmy from the engine compartment near the cooling fan.

Instructions

1

Disconnect the cable to the negative terminal with a socket wrench to keep you from starting the engine while you replace the water pump. Place a sealable container under the radiator petcock and open the petcock. Allow the coolant to drain from the radiator into the container.

2

Rotate the belt tensioner pulley with a wrench to relieve the tension on the drive belt and remove the drive belt with a socket wrench. Disconnect the upper cover for the cooling fan and remove the pulley for the water pump. Release the clamp for the hose to the water pump and disconnect the hose.

3

Remove the retaining bolts for the water pump with a socket wrench and detach the water pump from the engine. Record the position of each retaining bolt as they may have different lengths. Discard the gasket for the water pump.

4

Apply a thin layer of 1052080 sealant to the threads of the retaining bolts for the water pump. Place a new gasket onto the new water pump and mount the water pump to the engine. Install the retaining bolts for the water pump and tighten them to 30 ft. lbs. with a torque wrench.

5

Attach the coolant hose to the water pump and secure it with the retaining clamps. Connect the pulley for the water pump and place the drive belt over the pulley. Allow the tensioner to contact the drive belt and install the upper fan cover with a socket wrench. Connect the negative battery cable and fill the radiator with coolant. Start the engine and check for leaks in the cooling system.