Torque Ange Meter and Water pumps

[Corndog Man]

My 3.8 has a water pump going bad. After removal of the belt, and spinning by hand, the pump makes a pretty "nice" harmonic sound. Anyway, I can take it off and replace. According to the GM service manual for the 3.8, I need to torque the longer bolts to 15 ft lbs and the shorter bolts to 11 ft lbs. Then using the Torque Angle meter, add 40 degrees on the longer an 80 degrees on the shorter.

Has anyone replaced a water pump on a 3.8 Lumina. I could sort of "guesstimate "how many degrees in addition to the torque.


Thanks!

Corndog Man

[jeffcoslacker]

Damn you're hardcore...never torqued a water pump bolt in my life.

Never seen one fail because of it either.

Use two fingers and a thumb on the wrench so you can't put any real force on them, rotate the same amount once they draw up tight, good enough...

[Corndog Man]

Originally Posted by jeffcoslacker

Damn you're hardcore...never torqued a water pump bolt in my life.

Never seen one fail because of it either.

Use two fingers and a thumb on the wrench so you can't put any real force on them, rotate the same amount once they draw up tight, good enough...

Thanks Jeff!

I was surprised to see that as well. I have replaced a lot of water pumps and never torqued one or used a Torque Angle Meter. This is from the GM service manual. It was surprising to me but it's how it reads.

I really need to pull this engine and replace the oil pan gaskets. I have all the tools but it just looks like a royal pain. This is the only FWD car I have ever owned. It's been a very reliable car.

Thanks!

Corndog Man