Water pump replacement for mk4 TDI New beetle, Jetta, Golf
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Difficulty: 3/5

Summary:  You have to remove the timing belt to get access to the water pump which is why this article is rated 3.  Other than that it's very easy, just remove 3 bolts and the pump will come out.

Procedure

Drain coolant as needed and remove timing belt.  Note - do not use green prestone coolant, you should use VW G12/G12+ or compatible coolant, see 1000q: coolant flush for more details.  For non pumpe duse cars, MY 1998-2003, ALH engine, refer to timing belt part 1-removal

Remove bolts holding the water pump in place (3x 10mm bolts)  Here is a picture of the water pump removed to show the location of the bolts.

If it's stuck, you can use a block of wood to gently tap it out, alternating on the top and bottom until the water pump is loose.  Do not hit it hard or use a screwdriver to try and pry it out because this will damage the metal surfaces.  Then just pull it out.  A lot of coolant will come splashing out, so have paper towels and a catch pan below the pump to catch the coolant.

To install the water pump, use some coolant to lubricate the o-ring and press the new pump in place.  Make sure to lubricate the o-ring, otherwise it could get twisted or pinched, causing a water leak.  Do not use liquid gasket maker.

Torque the 3 bolts to 11 ft lbs.

Here is a picture of the backside of a metal-impeller water pump.

To put everything back together, refer to:
For non pumpe duse cars, ALH engine, MY 1999-2003, refer to timing belt part 1-removal and  timing belt part 2 - installation

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