The water pump is one of the essential parts of the Dodge RAM 1500 engine, as it keeps it cool to keep it running smoothly. The radiator sends the water through the thermostat and through various lines located in the engine and then it goes to the water pump where it is pumped back into the radiator. This keeps the water moving and prevents your truck from overheating.
Drain the water from the radiator by unscrewing the valve tap. You will need a large tank that can hold at least 3 to 4 gallons (11 to 15 liters). When it is empty, tighten the valve again.
Disconnect the wires and hoses leading to the wiper reservoir and coolant overflow container. You will need to remove them in order to remove the fan shroud.
Unscrew the fan shroud that covers the outside of the radiator. Pull it off along with the stock bottles and set them on the floor.
Remove the hose that runs from the bottom of the radiator to the water pump outlet and leave it on the floor.
Loosen the tensioner pulley spring using a ratchet so you can remove the serpentine belt from the pulley system. The tube size ranges from 1/2 to 3/4 inch (1.27 to 1.90 centimeters).
Use two wrenches to loosen the fan propeller from the intermediate pulley for proper access to the water pump pulley.
Loosen the Allen head screws holding the water pump pulley so you can remove the water pump pulley.
Remove the screws holding the water pump. Pull it out slowly to make sure the gasket comes out.
Scrape the area where the pump is located to remove any material that may have been left over from the old gasket to ensure a smooth surface.
Apply some silicone to the back of the water pump so that the new gasket will stick and you can apply the assembly to the engine.
Tighten the screws holding the water pump securely.
Replace the pulley so that the bolts line up with the new pump.
Reinstall the serpentine belt following the diagram located on the front of the radiator. Loosen the idler pulley to make clearance. Install the belt and then release the pulley to tighten it.
Install the fan by tightening the screws that hold the fan to the pulley. These are aligned males and females, which fit together.
Replace the radiator hose by placing one end on the water pump outlet tube and the other end on the bottom of the radiator.
Place the fan shroud over the radiator and adjust it so that there is a few inches of space around the fan. Tighten the screws that hold it in place.
Connect the electrical and water lines to the coolant and windshield washer fluid reservoirs.
Make a 50 percent mixture of water and antifreeze and pour it in until the system is full. Start the engine and let it run to circulate the coolant through the engine. Pour more water until the radiator is full, then tighten the cap.
Inspect the truck for coolant leaks. Watch the belt to make sure it is running smoothly.
Warnings
Don’t try to work on the engine after it has been running because the coolant may be boiling and you could burn yourself.