Mitsubishi Repair: Water pump on Expo, timing belt tensioner, crank pulley


Question
I have a 1995 Mitsubishi Expo, 2WD, with A/C.  Do I need any special parts/tools to replace this?  is there a specific procedure for getting to it?

I know I need to replace it, water squirts out of the weephole, and the car overheats after 5 miles.


Answer
Clay,
I'm not too familiar with the Expo, but I believe in order to change the water pump, you need to remove the timing belt to get to it.  If your car has not had a timing belt change in over 60,000 miles, you might as well replace all the drive belts and timing belt when performing your water pump replacement.  There are specialty tools that will help you if you want to replace your water pump, but they are not entirely necessary.  These special tools consist of a crank pulley holder to replace your crank pulley bolt and a special tool to relieve tension on the timing belt tensioner.  Air powered tools make all this much easier as well.

It's not an easy repair, but it can be done.  If you do want to do this yourself, I would highly recommend a factory service manual for your car.  You can usually order one at your local Mitsubishi dealership.  
Good luck!