I am trying to remove water pump on 2000 windstar 3.8. I have everything loose but I can not get the upper water pipe loose from the water pump. Is there any trick to getting this thing out. I can turn it a little bit but can not get it to go upward. I have remove the bolt that secures this pipe to the water pump and the bolt that secures it in the rear.

dlm4ut

 

I did this repair on my 1996 Windstar and I doubt you can remove that pipe without damaging it. Even if you can remove it, it may not seal to the new water pump. I didn't try to remove it. I went to the dealer and got a new pipe. I also got new studs. Of course the parts are overpriced, but you're saving at least $500 in labor.

I strongly recommend checking out your installation with a pressure tester before re-installing the belt and whatever else you had to remove. Where I live, you can borrow one for free from AutoZone. I had 2 studs that leaked and needed thread sealant even though my manuals did not mention it. I had to remove the pump and re-install it.

The radiator cap is small on the Windstar. The tester replaces the cap. I had to buy an adapter to hook the tester to where the cap screws on. I bought it online. If you have everything right, you should be able to pump that tester up to 15 lb., come back an hour later and the gauge should still be on 15 lb.