How to Replace the Water Pump on a 1984 Chevrolet Corvette

A water pump is found on any car. Its main function is to circulate the water in the cooling system of an automobile. When the water pump is not working, the vehicle will not be in any shape to drive. Replacing a water pump on a 1984 Corvette is similar to replacing a water pump on any other type of Corvette. It can be very detailed and time consuming for even the experienced mechanic.

Tools Used: Water pump sealant, Antifreeze, Sockets, 3/8-inch ratchets, Gasket scrapers, Pressure tester

Replace Water Pump

Open the hood and squeeze the radiator hose to make sure there is no pressure in the cooling system. Twist the radiator cap counterclockwise to remove it. Insert a pressure tester to test the cooling system. Place a drain pan under the radiator and open the drain valve to drain the cooling system.

Remove the drive belt from the car. Loosen it and begin pulling it out. Remove the lower radiator hose and any other hoses connected to the water pump. Unbolt the bolts holding the water pump in place and remove the water pump.

Clean the mounting surface on the engine block where the water pump was located with a gasket scraper. Set the new water pump in place and tighten it down using the same bolts that were used for the previous water pump.

Reinstall the hoses and belts that were removed in the same manner that they were taken off. Put the radiator plug back into place and refill the radiator with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Set a pressure tester at the top of the radiator and test for leaks.

Fill the overflow reservoir with coolant. Start the engine with the radiator cap still off and idle the engine so the trapped air from the cooling system can be removed. Add more coolant if necessary. Tighten the radiator cap back into place. Test the Corvette on the road, periodically checking the temperature gauge. Add more coolant if the vehicle is reading hot.

Tips & Warnings

Make sure the car is not hot when you begin installing the water pump. It must have been turned off for at least 30 minutes and completely cooled down.