Mopar R4448878 Body Assembly, Water Pump

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To replace the water pump, start by disconnecting the negative battery cable and draining the cooling system. For four-cylinder engines, remove the drivebelts, pulley, and alternator. On air-conditioned models, unbolt the compressor but don't disconnect the lines. Loosen clamps and detach hoses from the water pump, and then remove the bolts and detach the water pump and housing from the engine. Clean bolt threads and threaded holes, and remove old gasket material. Separate the water pump from the housing, and if installing a new pump, ensure it matches the old one. Apply RTV sealant and install a new O-ring on the housing. Attach the new pump to the housing, then reinstall all removed parts and refill the cooling system. For the 3.0L V6 engine, remove the timing belt and water pump mounting bolts. Inspect the water pump for damage and replace if needed. Scrape off old gasket material and install a new O-ring on the coolant inlet pipe. Place the new gasket on the water pump and install it, then press the pump assembly until the coolant inlet pipe seats properly. Install the pump-to-mounting bolts and refill the cooling system. For the 3.3L/3.8L engines, remove the drive belt, bolts, and detach the water pump from the front cover. Clean bolt threads and threaded holes, remove the old O-ring, and apply a thin bead of RTV sealant to the water pump mating surface. Install a new O-ring in the groove, attach the new pump to the front cover, and then reinstall the drivebelt and refill the cooling system. Run the engine and check for leaks.

A failure in the water pump can cause serious engine damage due to overheating. There are two ways to check the operation of the water pump while it's installed on the engine. If the pump is defective, it should be replaced with a new or rebuilt unit. Water pumps are equipped with weep or vent holes. If a failure occurs in the pump seal, coolant will leak from the hole. In most cases, you'll need a flashlight to find the hole on the water pump from underneath to check for leaks. If the water pump shaft bearings fail, there may be a howling sound at the front of the engine while it's running. With the engine off, shaft wear can be felt if the water pump pulley is rocked up-and-down. Don't mistake drivebelt slippage, which causes a squealing sound, for water pump bearing failure.