LT1 Water Pump Replacement

**2000LS1Bird** · 05-12-2010, 05:23 PM

So my '96 Trans Am needs a new water pump.

Anyone done this on their own? I've done a search but couldn't come up with the info/diagrams I needed. Can anyone help me out?

**97ramsst** · 05-13-2010, 05:31 PM

I have done it on our 96 WS6...its a pain in the ass but nothing major. Its pretty much just like changing one on a SBC just with more shit in the way. If your mechanicaly inclined you can figure it out as you go...if not pay somebody to do it would be my suggestion. Once you do it though and figure out what needs to come off and how to get to the bolts there is nothing to it.

**gotabekidding** · 05-13-2010, 05:51 PM

not to difficult.

got an inch pound torque wrench that works right?

after the air inlet crap is out of the way, it is no problem.

I did put some plastic over the Opti - just in case

**bigrondownhiller** · 05-14-2010, 02:52 PM

As suggested make sure you dont get any coolant on the opti. If the car has higher miles it might be a good idea to replace the opti or the cap and rotor from it while everything is apart.

**2000LS1Bird** · 05-15-2010, 12:34 AM

Thanks guys!

I think me and a friend are going to give it a go. Too expensive on the labor costs to have a shop do it.

**seppburgh** · 06-10-2010, 08:33 PM

Originally Posted by 2000LS1Bird

Thanks guys!

I think me and a friend are going to give it a go. Too expensive on the labor costs to have a shop do it.

Best of luck. Normally, folks replace the Opti at the sametime since the pump has to come off to replace it. The Opti does not take kinkly to water, so use lots of pasticy wrap and tape around it.

Remeber to bleed the system afterwards. There are three bleed points, two on the upper hose and one I belive by the knock sensor (please someone correct me if I am wrong.)

If replacing with a new OEM pump, everything you need is there in the box. Time to also replace the themastate and radiator cap as well.