Re: Need to Replace the Water Pump- I Need Tips and Tricks

[usa1ss]

Hi Everyone, (I am refering to 6.0 LS2 WP)
Well I have to replace the SSR's Water Pump tommorow and I need to know any tips or tricks from others that have done this before. I looked at the engine compartment tonight and figure I'll take the Air Box, MAF, and Air Tube off, all in one piece.
QUESTIONS:
1) Does the entire Accessory Bracket have to come off or just the Alternator?
2) The Water Pump I got to replace the OEM Pump came with Aluminum Gaskets with internal seals inside each of the two openings. How can I hold both of these gaskets, in place as I get the WP in place and lined up?
3) It was suggested that the Thermostat be replaced, I found out that the stock one is rated at 186 degrees. I was going to put a 160 degree thermostat in its place and have the fans come on earlier. (I was doing this as part of my PCM re-programming) Has anyone done this? Or should I stick with the Stock Thermostat?
4) Does anyone use Anti-Seize or Locktight Blue on any of the WP Hardware?
5) I plan on replacing all the clamps with SS Band Clamps.
6) Any ofhter TIPS from other who have replaced their own Water Pump????

Thank you for any and all answers and help.

Best Regards to all,
Scott Alexander - USA-1-SS
2005 AQUA-BLUR

PS- The ADDCO and Adjustable End Links combo works amazing. Thanks to all the people that took part in the Group Purchase. Sets of Adjustable End Links are still available.

[hdflstf]

Originally Posted by usa1ss

Hi Everyone, (I am refering to 6.0 LS2 WP)
Well I have to replace the SSR's Water Pump tommorow and I need to know any tips or tricks from others that have done this before. I looked at the engine compartment tonight and figure I'll take the Air Box, MAF, and Air Tube off, all in one piece.
QUESTIONS:
1) Does the entire Accessory Bracket have to come off or just the Alternator?
2) The Water Pump I got to replace the OEM Pump came with Aluminum Gaskets with internal seals inside each of the two openings. How can I hold both of these gaskets, in place as I get the WP in place and lined up?
3) It was suggested that the Thermostat be replaced, I found out that the stock one is rated at 186 degrees. I was going to put a 160 degree thermostat in its place and have the fans come on earlier. (I was doing this as part of my PCM re-programming) Has anyone done this? Or should I stick with the Stock Thermostat?
4) Does anyone use Anti-Seize or Locktight Blue on any of the WP Hardware?
5) I plan on replacing all the clamps with SS Band Clamps.
6) Any ofhter TIPS from other who have replaced their own Water Pump????

Thank you for any and all answers and help.

Best Regards to all,
Scott Alexander - USA-1-SS
2005 AQUA-BLUR

PS- The ADDCO and Adjustable End Links combo works amazing. Thanks to all the people that took part in the Group Purchase. Sets of Adjustable End Links are still available.

1) No.
2) Hang them on the bolts pre-installed into the waterpump.
3) No. Use stock temp rating.
4) Antiseize due to potential galvanic corrosion issues

[Topspin]

You don't have to touch the Alt. or it's mounting bracket. Be careful of the cam position sensor directly under the water pump on the drivers side. I usually cover it with a rag to keep the coolant off it during removal. As mentioned stick a couple bolts through the gaskets to keep them in place. No threadlocker, just lightly oil or anti-seize the bolts. It's a pretty simple R&R really. 160 t. stats are a thing of the past. Modern engines need 185 or better for the emissions controls to function properly. Good Luck!