From all the signs it looks like I need to replace the water pump on my 02 Alero with 3.4 liter engine. Hoping to get some instructions on how to do the job as I'm currently unemployed and I'm hoping I can do the job myself. Do alot of my own work but it'* been a very long time since I've replaced a water pump and I just want to make sure of everything. Better safe than sorry.

3.1L & 3.4L Engines

Before servicing the vehicle, refer to the precautions section.

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Drain the cooling system.
3. Remove or disconnect the following:
   
   Accessory drive belt
   
   Water pump pulley
   
   Water pump
   
   

To install:



Fig. Exploded view of the water pump mounting-3.1L & 3.4L engines

1. Install or connect the following:
   
   
   Water pump with a new gasket. Torque the bolts to 89 inch lbs. (10 Nm).
   
   Water pump pulley. Torque the bolts to 18 ft. lbs. (25 Nm).
   
   Accessory drive belt
   
   Negative battery cable
   
   
2. Refill and bleed the cooling system.
3. Test run the engine and check for leaks.

very easy on these. you only have to relieve tension on the belt and lay the part on the pump out of the way. (make sure you take a pic of belt route or draw a picture). and you only have to mess with the pulley if they dont give you a new one. its a good time to change the coolant, i use prestone extended life for everything its relatively cheap at walmart. to bleed the system there are two bleeders one on the hard coolant crossover tube and one on the driver side. they have small bleeders that break so i normally dont chance it use a deep socket and remove the lower part. fill slowly till you get coolant out of them and return the plugs. then top off and run the car with the rad cap off until the thermostat opens top it off and put the cap on

Replaced water pump and all is well I think. I have one concern as the car is a little noisy at startup in the morning as it seems like the belt is squealing, at least I hope it'* the belt and not the pump. The car drives just fine and tempature is where it should be. When I get to work engine is a quiet as it should be. Should I change the belp maybe or just let it go. Belt doesn't look to old from what I see and looks to be in good condition.

You may want to purchase some belt dressing at the auto parts store, spray it on and see of the problem go away. May be helpful in eliminating possibilities.