Nissan Repair: 1996 Nissan Maxima Water Pump Housing, nissan maxima, mounting bolt

Question
  On a 1996 Nissan Maxima,In the process of replacing the water pump the Inner part of the engine were the water pump goes into and mounts. I  discovered the middle mounting bolt missing and a big piece of the housing missing. Is the water pump housing replacable or is it  part of the engine block?  

Answer
Gus,

I would think the pump is what you are talking about as the part of the housing.  If this is the case, then yes it is part of the pump.  If the pump bolts to it then it is part of the engine.  I would drop the pan and get the bolt and broken part out of the engine regardless.  You need to make sure there is no debris in the engine and also replace the oil and coolant.  Be sure you have the chain pulled back to make sure it does not jump a tooth.