The water pump should seal to the engine block. I also think you have to remove the timing belt to replace the water pump. This is a good time for a timing belt replacement, since you are a few steps away from a new timing belt.

The water pump has a weep hole that will leak some fluid. If there is a lot of fluid, the seal is worn.

How much coolant are you leaking? Do you notice any on the driveway?

Did you try pressure testing your radiator to locate the leak? Your leak may me somewhere else. Worth trying before going through the hassle of replacing the water pump and not fixing your problem.

 

Yeah the system was under pressure and we tested with UV dye, it's leaking around the back of the water pump. The timing belt is that housing behind the water pump - I'm just going to order a timing belt/water pump kit to change out all of that stuff. Thanks for the help!

 

The timing belt drives the waterpump, so you have to remove the timing belt in order to remove the waterpump. I'm nearly certain that's the way for the V-6 engines.

 

Are any special tools needed to change the timing belt/waterpump other than your standard sockets and wrenches?

 

Maybe a brain. Lol! No special tools needed

 

The crank bolt is the most difficult part of the job, because it can be on there very tight. I'd start with trying to loosen that bolt. There is a crank holder tool that I think you can rent from parts stores like O'Reillys. It will prevent the crank from turning when you try to get leverage on that bolt. I powerful impact gun will work if you have one. There are lots of youtube videos on removing this bolt that you should watch before starting this job.

 

Thank you again for your help!