Removing the Power Steering Pump on a 97 GTP

[p coico]

OK, so what is the best way to get this thing out and then back in ? From the top by removing the alternator or from below thru the inner fender
behind the wheel. The inner fender route looks to be real tight. Anybody done this ? Thanks

[Fivefingerdeathpunch]

Take the wheel off and do it through there.

You can get at some of the bolts through the top still.

[CHI2000GTP]

From the top. Drain the coolant. Take out the coolant overflow tank (maybe skip this since its a '97), then alternator, remove cooling hoses from alternator bracket, then remove alternator bracket, remove cooling elbows with bracket (residual coolant might spill out). Label the bolts from the alt. bracket!! When you put it back together the bolts need to be replaced correctly or you will puncture the valve cover. After that, you have really good access to the pump. The pump has a pulley which blocks one on the bolts, but there is a hole in the pulley allowing you to place a socket in there. Just 2 bolts holding it in, iirc. Good luck!

[CHI2000GTP]

You recommend going from the wheel? Hmmmm. Maybe saves some steps with the coolant flush and all. I know you have lots of clearance through the top, but maybe extra work.

[Fivefingerdeathpunch]

It's less steps through the wheel well.

[Impala131]

I recommend going through the wheel well, also. It gives you easy access to the hose clip and fitting to remove the lines.

[CHI2000GTP]

Ok. Ok. Shut down, lol. Through the wheel it is!

[Scottydoggs]

wheel well it is for sure, take the wheel off have a pan handy, take lines off, the pump will drain when the lines come off.

watch out for the knock sensor wire clipped to the pump, un clip it or you'll break it.

you also need a GM power steering pulley pulley. free rental at the parts store. swap the pulley once the pump is in your hands.

[p coico]

wheel well it is for sure, take the wheel off have a pan handy, take lines off, the pump will drain when the lines come off.

watch out for the knock sensor wire clipped to the pump, un clip it or you'll break it.

you also need a GM power steering pulley pulley. free rental at the parts store. swap the pulley once the pump is in your hands.

Thanks to ll that replied !! Good advice. I will go thru the wheelwell. It is tight getting the pump in and out thru the clearance over the steering linkage. But looks to be just enough..... Rather not mess with those coolant elbows, been there done that ....