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So I'm trying to change my water pump. Got all the bolts off the drivers side and one nut off the passenger side. I have to take off the AC bracket to get the water pump off and I cannot figure out how to get the bracket off. I've read I have to pull the AC compressor to remove it, but one bolt to remove the compressor hits the valve cover, so I can't remove it without taking more stuff off. Is there a way around taking off the valve cover, or just a better way to get the water pump off?
It may be a matter of pulling the compressor fwd as you unscrew the bolt. Bolt stays in place.
May at need to take the secret hidden bolt off from the bottom first. Search hidden ac bolt. It's a torx, size can't remember but DO NOT USE THE WRONG SIZE. you are f'd if you strip it.
I think if you pull this hidden bolt out, it will make more sense then you can pull the compressor fwd as you unscrew the bolt in by the VC.
When end I did mine, I used permatex aviation form a gasket to coat both sides of the paper gaskets.
things are a lot easier if you remove the belt tensioner first. this allows better access to that bottom "hex head/torx recess" bolt. you should be able to slide the "compressor/bracket" assembly forward enough to access the water-pump hardware and clear the water pump's RH mounting stud-bolts.
here's a pic of that bottom bolt -
if the OP is looking for a rear mounting bolt fix, here's a mod that will eliminate the issue with the (valve cover) compressor mounting bolt -
Water pump and A/C bracket fun :)
