How difficult is it to replace waterpump

I've got a 96 Aurora that I plan to replace the radiator. I'm thinking that since the cars got 90,000 miles I might as well replace the water pump and thermostat as well. I've seen a couple threads on the radiator r&r so I plan to order from RadiatorExpress do it this weekend. How difficult is the water pump to replace on a 96? Do I need any special tools? Thx.

Replacing the water pump on the Aurora is very easy since you have so much room to work with after the air filter box and hose is removed. You do need a special tool to remove the water pump though.


BKVic

See the "special tools for the northstar 4.0L" thread on page 3.

See the "special tools for the northstar 4.0L" thread on page 3.


I took a look at the above thread and others before I posted my question. I've seen references for special tools for Northstar v8's in Caddy's after 93 and Aurora's after 1997 but not before. Just wondering if anyone had first hand experience to verify 1996 doesn't require a tool.

All 4.0's do require the tool.

I have the water pump removal tool and I still can't seem to loosen or remove the pump. Any ideas?

I have the water pump removal tool and I still can't seem to loosen or remove the pump. Any ideas?

Some can be stubborn to remove. Apply heat, turn CLOCKWISE to loosen.

RD

Heat it up and it should come right out. I used a 2400 watt paint stripping heat gun (blower) on mine and it came out within 30 sec of applying the heat

Thanks guys I'll try this weekend