Grand Am 1996 water pump replacement!

[JJhammer]

Just bought a nice 1996 Grand am in mint condition but it needs a water pump. It is leaking throught the weep hole. Has 124000 miles on it and runs very nice except for this problem. Had it up on a friends hoist and it looks like Hell to replace this water pump! It has a 2.4 engine in it. I was wondering if anyone has done it and how long it would take? I am sure that I would replace the timing belt and thermostat at the same time. Maybe I should just pay for it? I am handy and have done many automotive repairs but this repair looks ugly! Thanks for the help!

[chevyrulespops]

the 2.3 and the 2.4 (Quad 4) engine use a timing chain I believe. The 2.5l uses a timing belt. I know 4 sure you're going to need a jaw type puller to remove the vibration damper off the front. This would be a great time with the mileage that your engine has to replace any seals. There might be a front crankshaft seal and a camshaft seal as well. If you want to tackle the job yourself I recommend going to your local public library. They probably have your car manual which you can borrow. This way you can gauge for yourself if you want to tackle the job.