2.4 water pump

[eddie8]

I have a 1996 2.4 that needs a water pump. I am told that the exhaust manifold also has to be removed to replace the pump. Could someone tell me if this is right? Thanks.

[lefty13lefty]

iv got a 1994 and a 1992 grand am and iv pulled the water pump on both. you dont have to pull the exhaust manifold but it makes it alot easier, its a pain to try and work around it but it can be done,....note the water pumps have steel impellers usually they wont go bad unless the bearings went out could be a cracked head or thermostat if the cars overheating.....Good Luck

[eddie8]

Thanks lefty, I am going to try it without removing the manifold.

[richtazz]

You can get it out without doing so, but GM suggests you do. The proceedure is different between the 2.3 in the 93-94 models than it is for the 2.4 in the 96-up. I've heard the 2.4 is a bitch of a job, so make sure you know what you're doing, because if I remember correctly, your 2.4 water pump is driven by the timing chain, and is not for the typical shade tree mechanic.