would it be done underneath the car or above? Exhaust manifold is no problem. I’ve removed it twice in the last month. 😬

 

One other thing. Let’s not forgot how this problem arose. I was installing a exhaust manifold and heard fluid coming out. Do you actually think I could have moved the coolant transfer tube, which in turn tweaked or damaged the o ring? There was no problem with coolant leaking before work had been done.

 

Yes the pipe could have been moved enough to disturb the orings

 

got it. Will most of the work be done from up top or underneath the car? Man, I don’t wanna have to do this lying on my back in my drive way.
Shop I talked to wanted to just replace the whole water pump. However, I am sure it is the O ring.

 

I replaced the orings in a 2.2 from up top, I removed the exhaust manifold first but might have not needed to.

 

one more question before I tear into this tomorrow. Can I just unbolt the thermostat housing and then slide the pipe out of the water pump, or do I need to unbolt the back plate of the water pump as well?

 

This might help with the repair.
Note what is said at the 3:36 mark.

 

From the video you can pull the pipe without touching the water pump.
Make sure everything thing is cleaned smooth before install pipe with new o-rings
I don't recommend putting RTV Silicone on the o-rings.
You can use Vaseline or Murphy's oil soap. (Murphy's is a plant based soap) you can from any big box store.
I like using the paste better than the liquid. It's more like a grease.

 

DexCool is the recommended lube.

 

I just wanted to thank all that has chimes in and offered advice for the small problem I am having. I will be fixing it this weekend.
I am fairly new to the mechanics of the HHR, as it’s my wife’s car. I have belonged to a couple of other forums and never received the amount of help that I have received recently. Most forums just tell you to search and google. There has been pictures, videos and part numbers supplied and it was done quickly. So again thanks for all the help and a well developed and active forum. It’s well appreciated.