Water Pump vs Timing Cover- Cover losing

robbo · Post by **robbo** » 23 Oct 2010, 23:47

Replacing leaking water pump in 96 850T and could not physically remove the pump without taking off the plastic timing belt (inner) cover. Now after replacing the water pump and removing all timing belt tensioners and idler pulleys in addition to the crank pulley, I cannot get the (now partially broken) inner cover back in place. I searched all through this site and it seems like most people don't address the plastic cover or are able to leave it in place during the water pump r&r. Did I miss something? I am using the Haynes manual (which is worthless) and it does not mention this step.
Have others had luck with removing cam sprockets? I'm taking a break from this as my throat is raspy from the swearing.

Post by **Matty Moo** » 24 Oct 2010, 02:23

I've done 3 water pumps and have never had to remove the rear cover. I'd tell you to take a pic, but you can't even see that area, let alone take a picture of it.

Post by **phils94850** » 24 Oct 2010, 05:40

AS matt said... you dont have to remove the inner cover to replace the waterpump. Ive done several WP jobs and never had to remove it.

Post by **Matty Moo** » 24 Oct 2010, 06:00

I just snapped this pic of a blown engine I have in the garage. There is no point where the water pump goes over the rear cover.

Post by **thecheat** » 24 Oct 2010, 06:55

Agreed, i just removed the bolts and gave the wp pulley a little tap with a hammer and it came off.

robbo · Post by **robbo** » 24 Oct 2010, 13:11

Wow, you guys must have much more dexterity than I, there was no way the water pump was coming out with the inner cover in place. The photo helped show the close relationship between the water pump and cover. I considered unbolting the motor mount and raising the engine, but no one mentioned this.
I guess I'll remove the pump and install the cover loosely first and try again in that order. Thanks for the assistance.