Remove Water Pump

I am going to replace the water pump on my ’78 308GTS. All of the step-by-steps that I found show how to pull the whole pump assembly including the thermostat housing off as one unit. Is there a reason to do this if you just want to replace the pump? Can’t you just pull the 7 or so nuts and bolts and remove the pump and leave the housing in place?

 

Technically yes, although sometimes they are so corroded that they pump is frozen on and it is easier to work on the whole assembly on your bench.

 

Well, where you live, I don't know how you will buy me a beer but maybe our paths will cross.

I have a '78 and have done this job. My write up based on my work and another F-Chat member posts.
View attachment Waterpump.pdf

 

Yup, just did exactly this, last weekend.

Behold:
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Between the thermostat housing and the face of the block is an o-ring seal. If you do not remove the housing, then you obviously cannot replace this ring.

In my case the ring was almost new ( ... long story) and I was comfortable not changing it again. But if your ring seal is old, it makes sense to replace it.
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OK that makes sense. So now about the O ring, is it a generic I can pick up at NAPA or something special I am going to have to send away for?

 

Why not just take your old o-ring to your local auto parts store and match it up?

 

thanks. I will give it a try.