Water Pump: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Nissan Pathfinder. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Remove undercover.
Remove suspension member stay.
Drain coolant from radiator.
Remove radiator shrouds.
Remove drive belts.
Remove cooling fan.
Remove water drain plug on water pump side of cylinder block.
Remove chain tensioner cover and water pump cover.

Fig 1: Removing Chain Tensioner Cover And Water Pump Cover
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Pushing timing chain tensioner sleeve, apply a stopper pin so it does not return. Then remove the chain tensioner assembly.

Fig 2: Removing Chain Tensioner Assembly
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Remove the 3 water pump fixing bolts. Secure a gap between water pump gear and timing chain, by turning crankshaft pulley 20° backwards.

Fig 3: Turning Crankshaft Pulley
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Put M8 bolts [pitch: 1.25 mm (0.0492 in), length: approx. 50 mm (1.97 in)] to two water pump fixing bolt holes.

Fig 4: Identifying M8 Bolts
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.
Tighten M8 bolts by turning half turn alternately until they reach timing chain rear case.
- In order to prevent damages to water pump or timing chain rear case, do not tighten one bolt continuously. Always turn each bolt half turn each time.
Lift up water pump and remove it.
- When lifting up water pump, do not allow water pump gear to hit timing chain.
  
  Fig 5: Tightening M8 Bolts By Turning Half Turn
  Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.