I've been trying to figure out how to remove the water pump. The service manual says to go in from the top of the engine bay but I'm having a hard time even getting my arm and hand down to the location of the bolts lol.

I know to take the engine cover off as well as the strut bar but anything else? Does taking the pulley off give me the access I need?

​​​​​​Any help would be greatly appreciated

 

Take the motor mount off. Support the engine by the oil with a jack with a 2x6 on it so you don't crush the pan.

 

Then go in through the side after taking the fender liner out?

 

Having the motor mount Ives you more room. Once that's out you can decide which way to go.

 

Just checked. Not sure that removing the motor mount is going to get me anywhere.

I'm thinking you know this already but the circle is the mount, the arrow is where the water pump is. There some room but it's tough to feel where the bolts are because you can't see em lol

 

Removing the motor mount lets the motor drop down, and IIRC it makes it easier to get to the pump from the bottom. I haven't done one for like 3yrs, and I did it at the same time as timing chain, but I def went through the bottom with the mount off and it wasn't too bad.

Also, there is a coolant drain on the back (firewall side) of the block. Drain the rad and then pull that plug and let the coolant drain. It'll lessen the mess when pop the pump off.

 

Ah I see what you are saying now. If you go in from the bottom that might make a huge difference. I can see the pump from the bottom but can't reach most of the bolts. Especially the two that the metal coolant hose connect to the pump.

Thanks for the tips