How to replace water pump on Dodge Neon 2001?

Question

I need help to replace the water pump on my dodge neon 2001.?
I am aware that I need a Chrysler balance puller to remove the Vibration bumper. How will I prevent the damper from rotating while I remove its bolt? Which tool will I need to install it back? How do I accomplish that? The service manuals states: "Install crankshaft vibration damper using M12 1.75x1500 mm bolt, washer, thrust bearings and nut from Special Tool 6792".
To access the water pump mounting screws I will also need to remove the CAMSHAFT sprocket. How can I manage to hold the camshaft sprocket in place (prevent it from spinning) while I remove its locking bolt? How will I be able to pull it out from its shaft? The service manual recommend using four special tools for this job. Are these tools really indispensable or can I use something that more widely available?

Thanks a lot.

Answer 1

you need air tools to remove the damper and the cam sprocket easily, it can be done by hand, but hard to describe little tricks to hold the cam, etc. this might be a job to be done by a professional. if you don't get the timing bely on right, or you don't set the tensioner right you could end up bending your valves and/or ruining your valve guides and have to buy a new head.

Answer 2

The simple answer is that professional mechanics use air driven tools that will not rotate the shafts before breakaway torque.

Doing it by hand is just crazy. There are some DC 1/2 inch guns that might just solve your problem. I have never used them and cannot verify they will get the crank pully off, but ought to be no prob on the cam gear.

Best of luck

ASE Cert Auto Tech, 95 Neon 2.0 SOHC, 96 T&C

Answer 3

You will need to place a floor jack underneath the right corner of the engine to raise and lower the engine to get the clearance you need. Good luck.

Answer 4

The first thing is---why are you changing it ? Is it leaking ? if so you are right. If not is it due to an overheat problem ? if so you are wrong. If not leaking coolant it is not defective and is not your problem. Overheat is a RADIATOR problem.
If you need to change it Auto Zone loans tools if you buy your parts there.