Water Pump holding tool for 2003 Vue?

[aziemnik]

My father-in-law and I are going to try to replace the water pump in my 2003 3.0 V6 Vue. I received some instructions on how to do this from Autozone and the instructions have the procedure for all the engine sizes. On all of the engine sizes except for the 3.0 liter say that you need this special "water pump holding tool". My question is this: do I actually not need this tool, or was this left out of the instructions for the 3.0 liter in error? Thanks for the help!

[aziemnik]

bump..

[RobertGary1]

My father-in-law and I are going to try to replace the water pump in my 2003 3.0 V6 Vue. I received some instructions on how to do this from Autozone and the instructions have the procedure for all the engine sizes. On all of the engine sizes except for the 3.0 liter say that you need this special "water pump holding tool". My question is this: do I actually not need this tool, or was this left out of the instructions for the 3.0 liter in error? Thanks for the help!


Try it before you buy a tool. I've had luck just using an oil filter strap wrench on the pully to work against the bolts. All you are trying to do is prevent the pully wheel on the pump from turning while you loosen the little bolts on the front.

-Robert

[DavidBo]

Are you sure you're not reading the instructions for the 4 cyl Vue? The ecotech most definitely needs the tool (I have one..found it cheap!), not sure about the six.

[DavidBo]

OK, I just re-read your original post. Only the 4 cyl needs a special fixture because the pump is actually driven by the balance shaft chain. I believe the six is a little more traditional. Search this site for more info as I believe it's a bit challenging. Good luck.