I need to replace the coolant expansion tank on my '05 roadster limited, 106k miles.
Also have a new thermostat to install and thought I should replace the water pump and once I'm into it that far might as well replace the serpentine belt, idler & tensioner.
And with all that removed and out of the way I might as well replace the alternator (battery too).
My question is am I missing something?
Is there a coolant temp sensor or anything else in the glycol system?
Thank you!

 

Brake hoses, flush brake fluid and clutch fluid if it's a manual. Also when you do the water pump, make an outline of the new one on cardboard. When you remove the bolts push them in the same spot as the cardboard.
This way, when you install the new pump, you will know where to put each bolt.
I've done a lot of preventative maintenance, and documented everything I've done.
If you need reference pics or how to's You can check out my thread here: My Journey with my 2006 Roadster....
Hopefully, you will find something helpful there.

 

Thanks, I'll check out that thread.
Yes, brakes are next!

 

Be advised there are a number of different length screws when replacing the water pump. Be alert as to which goes where. I suggest you place your new pump near your work place and as you remove the screws from the car place them in the correct spot on the new pump. Then when you install that new pump you will be certain to get the correct length screw back in the car where it belongs.

Also it all goes a lot easier if you remove the electric fan completely off the car before working those items you intend to replace.

 

Yes I replaced my water pump about 2 years ago. Definitely trace the outline of the pump and hole locations on a piece of cardboard and place the bolts in those holes in the cardboard. You do not want to mess up where they go as there are a number of different lengths.

Also draw out the pathway for the serpentine belt around the pulleys and tensioners before taking it off.

 

NA Belt Diagram

 

Thanks for all the replies.
Just recieved the new water pump and the holes where the idler pulley bracket mounts are plain (no threads).
I'm need to tap the holes, does anyone know what the thread size is for the torx screws?

 

radiator expansion tank :https://www.autohausaz.com/pn/1705000349

 

I already have the tank, bought it from https://www.germanautoparts.com/
They have good prices and better yet, low shipping costs.

 

It is an M6 tap or you can tap it with the bolt since the water pump is soft aluminum.

 

I tapped mine. I didn’t on a previous pump and cranked a bit too hard. Broke a bolt
I wasn’t going to be a block head twice so I tapped them.
but that’s just me.
Needed a new tap set and it’s always fun to see how many new tools “I need” my wife turns a blind eye to


Zeracer is correct it’s soft aluminum. Do what you’re comfortable with.

 

I agree, I would recommend a tap however some folks don't want to spend the money for a one-time use. I personally have a full set of taps and dies.

 

I used the bolts to tap the threads, was a bit more work as you have to thread in 1/4 distance and then back out to clear the shavings and repeat until you can bottom out the bolt. I also had to bore out the alternator mounting bushing as it was too small to allow the bolt to pass without a big hammer blow. Unfortunately the alternator did not fit, the cable attachment did not have the recesses to allow the triangle shaped lug to fit without extreme modification. Everything went back together and the car is a bit quieter and runs better (probably the t-stat getting it up to proper temp quickly). A bonus is the wiper dash light is gone from the reset that happen when I replaced the battery. I did try to remove a spark plug (passenger side front) and it seems seazed, I left it alone and will start a new thread if I do not find help in the archive. Also took some photos and will assemble a narrative when I get time to add to the archive here.

 

Why are you only replacing one plug?

 

Tried to remove the 1st of 12 and couldnt get it to backout, stopped because I didnt want to strip the head.
Need to regroup with a plan to address the stubborn plug(s).

 

Spray your plugs with a good penetrating oil and let them sit over night. Clean out the area around them and spray them again.
When you go to remove them, turn the wrench to try to loosen it, if it doesn't move turn the wrench to tighten them a little. Don't over do it. Then loosen, tighten. Spray again, repeat.