Repair 7

How to Install a Water Pump in a 1998 Chrysler Sebring

The Chrysler Sebring is a mid-size sedan that Chrysler has produced since 1995. The 1998 model is a first-generation Sebring that was in production until 2000. The most common engine in a 1998 Chrysler Sebring is a 4-cylinder, 2.0-liter with a multi-port fuel injection. The water pump for these engines is located on the front of the engine block, under the cover for the timing chain. The procedure for installing the water pump requires you to drain the cooling system.

Instructions

1

Remove the cable on the negative terminal of the battery with a socket wrench. Turn the engine crankshaft clockwise so that the first cylinder is at top dead center. This position will align the timing marks on the camshaft sprockets.

2

Raise the vehicle with a jack and support it on jack stands. Disconnect the inner splash shield from the engine with a socket wrench. Remove the accessory drive belts.

3

Place a drain pan under the drain plug of the radiator and remove the drain plug. Allow the coolant to drain into the drain pan. Replace the drain plug and store the coolant for later use.

4

Support the engine with a floor jack and disconnect the right mount for the engine with a socket wrench. Remove the timing belt, timing belt tensioner and camshaft sprockets.

5

Disconnect the attaching bolts for the water pump with a socket wrench and remove the water pump. Discard the O-ring. Clean the mounting surface for the O-ring with a shop rag.

6

Install the new O-ring onto the new water pump and ensure it is properly seated into its groove. Install the water pump and tighten its mounting bolts to 105 pound-inch with a torque wrench. Turn the water pump by hand to ensure that it rotates freely.

7

Connect the camshaft sprockets, timing belt tensioner and timing belt with a socket wrench. Replace the timing belt cover and install the bracket for the right engine mount. Lower the floor jack and connect the right splash shield for the engine.

8

Lower the vehicle with the jack. Install the accessory drive belt and adjust it to the proper tension. Fill the coolant to the proper level and connect the negative battery terminal with a socket wrench. Start the engine and check for coolant leaks.