Here are some tips on installing a water pump from our Technical Department. Hope these help with your next restoration project.
1) Before installing verify that you have the correct water pump, as there can be different variations made for your tractor.
2) If the engine is hot, let it cool down and drain the coolant from the radiator and block.
3) Disconnect and inspect all of the hoses. If cracked or damaged, replace the hoses.
4) Remove fan blade and pulley if possible. Take care not to damage the radiator. On some models, you must leave the fan assembled while the water pump is on the engine.
5) Remove the old water pump making note of any special length bolt locations. Check the bolts if they are badly corroded clean or replace them.
6) With the pump off, clean any sediment and scale from the impeller cavity in the block or head.
7) Run a thread chaser through the water pump mounting holes in the block or head.
8) Remove all gasket material from pump mounting surfaces.
9) If the water pump is equipped with a steel backing plate covering the impeller, check all the mounting screws and bolts to verify that they are tight. If the pump doesn’t include a plate, take off the old pump plate, clean it and add a new gasket and install it on the new pump. If the fan and pulley can be installed as an assembly with the pump, bolt the fan and pulley on now.
10) Coat the gasket with a “tacky” sealant and position on the pump. If using a silicone style sealant, do not apply an excessive amount as when compressed it could clog up the water passage.
11) Install new pump on the block or head. DO NOT FORCE PUMP! If the pump doesn’t seem to fit, you may not have the impeller opening completely cleaned of rust or scale in the block or head.
12) Tighten the mounting bolts gradually and evenly in a staggered sequence to the engine manufacturer’s specifications. These specifications are usually included in an I&T Shop Service manual for your model.
13) Reinstall the fan and pulley on the pump (unless it is easier to install the fan with the pump initially). Adjust the belt to the factory tension. Install the hoses and clamps.
14) Tighten the drain plugs and fill the radiator with coolant. Check for any leaks.
15) Install the radiator cap and run the engine until normal operating temperature is reached. Check for water circulation and leaks. Remember: NEVER remove a radiator cap when the engine is hot!
16) Allow the engine to cool down. Remove the radiator cap and top off coolant.
BONUS: Prolong the life of your new water pump by verifying the following!
A) Check your fan blade and replace it if it is bent, cracked, has loose rivets or broken welds. Imbalance in the fan can cause excessive load on the water pump bearing and seal.
B) Never adjust a fan belt tighter than factory specifications.
C) Inspect the radiator cap. If it looks corroded, it is wise to purchase a new one. If your system is pressurized, a defective cap can cause excessive pressure and damage to the pump seal.
Good luck with your next water pump repair!