Water Pump

[HansonHVAC]

This morning when i started my car i had no power steering. So i opened to hood and went to examine my power sterring pump. I found the pully for my water pump laying down toward the chasis and my belt compltetly off. The bearings were sitting inside the water pump. My question is what does a water pump cost and how detailed would it be if i were to change it out myself? Is it difficult?

[maxwedge]

Book time is about 2.2, includes remove p/s pump to access one difficult bolt on pump, late model I assume, no details given.

[HansonHVAC]

sorry forgot the details ooops..... 1991 buick park avenue 153000 miles 3800 engine

[spelljunkie72]

I just put a new water pump in my 89 LeSabre today (also has a 3800 engine). Took about 15-20 minutes to take off (all the bolts around the perimeter of the pump were nicely accessible). Costed $29 and some change - after tax - for a new one (I brought my old one to the parts store with me since there is a core charge if you don't). Took another 15-20 minutes to put back on. Took another 10 minutes to figure out how to get the serpentine belt back on (search the forums here for serpentine belt and you will find the trick).

I also have a 92 PA and doesn't look much different. If you think you may need help, get a Haynes manual for the car from the parts store (costs about $15-20); it will walk you though. That manual will save you thousands; it shows you how to work on just about every part you car has. I have had one for every vehicle I owned. I never take my vehicles to a shop as the book times for such basic repairs are rip-offs (i.e. was going to have a garage put in a new starter since it was winter time, they said book time was an hour and a half; I said screw that and braved -6F temps to change it in 20 minutes).

In other words, if you know how to use a rachet, do it yourself and spend your money elsewhere.