Oldblue

I’ve changed a few, simply removed the harmonic balancer bolt and serpentine belt and the balancer slide right off, no puller required.
Do replace the bolt , it’s a TTY

RJ_RS_SS_350

Pulling the bolt is the hard part, you have to keep the balancer from turning.

Oldblue

A large screwdriver used as a lever thru the balancer to the front cover to stop it from turning .
a hint , never turn the crankshaft counter clockwise.

mobilebyrd

Did y'all order the water pump with the sprocket attached (ACDelco 251-751) or the one without the sprocket (ACDelco 252-821)? I'm fine swapping sprockets and bolts to save $50 if it's a simple swap.

mobilebyrd

If one is already replacing the water pump, how much extra time is required/added to replace the timing chain and balancer(?)
I don't have a way to remove the engine and I'm working on an uneven (sloped) driveway using wheel chocks...am I nuts for even thinking about it?

If I have to remove the head or block to do the timing I'm 99% sure I'm skipping it and will sell the HHR within a year of replacing the water pump.

donbrew

Don't need a sprocket. No need to remove engine. Replacing chains makes it easier to do the pump since you don't need the sprocket holder tool, but is a bit more complicated. I would figure 2 more hours more for someone who has never done timing chains.
Just changing the pump you don't open the chain cover, work from the back.

aradmahogany

Make sure its not something as simple as the valve cover gasket as well..... Start simple before going head first into a complete chain job or replacing the water pump; I dont think the water pump fails too often and the only time chains fail is improper oil change intervals and failed tensioners. More people have caused issues than solved them by replacing the chain proactively.

mobilebyrd

After pulling FAR TOO MANY panel clips to get a good look it appears the harmonic balancer seal is leaking. Both the seal and bolt kit are in stock at my local Chevy dealer for <$20 out the door.

donbrew

You will probably want to get the chain cover gaskets too, They are paper thin.

mobilebyrd

Top of Water pump access panel.

Bottom of water pump access with a drop of oil on a bolt.

Harmonic balancer and an oily mess.