How To Replace Water Pump 01-07 3.3L/3.8L Dodge Caravan
Difficulty: Advanced · About 180 min · Dodge Caravan
Replace the water pump on a 2001–07 3.3L or 3.8L Dodge Caravan, supporting the engine and restoring the intake, belt, and cooling system.
Tools you will need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- Engine support
- Drain pan
- Phillips screwdriver
- 13 mm socket
- 15 mm socket
- 10 mm socket
- 21 mm wrench
- Ratchet
- Pliers
Parts and supplies
- Water pump with O-ring
- Coolant
Steps
Drain the coolant
Start with a fully cool engine. Open the radiator drain into a catch pan and remove the radiator cap only after confirming the system is no longer pressurized.
Raise the vehicle and open access
Loosen the wheel nuts, raise and support the vehicle, then remove the wheel and inner splash panels to reach the pump area.
Remove the air intake
Disconnect the airflow sensor and breather hose, loosen the intake clamp, and remove the air box and intake tube. Keep dirt out of the exposed intake opening.
Support the engine and loosen the mount
Place a properly rated engine support under the engine before removing mount fasteners. Lower or reposition the engine only as needed to create working clearance.
Remove the belt and pump
Release belt tension and remove the belt from the water-pump pulley. Remove the pulley and pump fasteners, maneuver the pump out, and clean the sealing surface.
Install the new pump
Seat the new O-ring and transfer any required plug from the old pump. Position the pump and pulley, start the fasteners by hand, and tighten evenly to specification.
Reinstall belt, mount, and intake
Route the belt using the vehicle diagram and release the tensioner carefully. Reinstall the engine mount and air intake, reconnecting the airflow sensor and breather hose.
Close the panels and refill coolant
Reinstall the inner panels and wheel, then close the drain and refill with the specified coolant mixture. Bleed air using the vehicle procedure and set the reservoir level.
Check operation and coolant level
Run the engine with the heater controls set as prescribed, inspect the pump and hoses for leaks, and let the engine cool before rechecking the level. Monitor coolant for the next few drives.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.