Nissan Repair: 04 frountier 4cly water pump, nissan pickup truck, nissan pickup

Question
Mr Sudderth,
Saw your answer for a 95 truck. My purchased used truck is a different year. I hear a screech on start up. That usually means water pump(?)
How difficult is it to replace a water pump in my '04 Nissan pickup truck (4 cylinder with air)? Should I buy new or rebuilt pump?
Does this thing have a timing belt?
Thanks,

Answer
Dennis,

The screech on startup could be one of a number of things.  If a belt is loose it can make the noise.  If an assessory drive is binding it can cause the problem too.  The best way to diagnose is to loosen all the belts and spin the accessories by hand.  Alternator, compressor, power steering and the water pump.  If one is binding replace it.  Also, if the belts are worn and hard it will casue the noise.  Lastly, the idler pulleys that you tighten could be worn out.