Do I need a special 41 mm water pump wrench or can I use channel locks?

I was ordering a new water pump and RockAuto asked me if I also wanted a special 41 mm wrench to go with it. I was wondering if I really need it or can I use channel locks or another, more versatile tool to avoid buying something I probably won't be able to use for anything else.

 

I dunno sir. I've never performed the fix before, hence the question

 

I know what a water pump socket looks like and why it is used. I don't think it is needed on our trucks.

 

To remove the fan I suspect. If so I used a large pipe wrench to loosen it.

 

i was thinking the same thing

 

If you don't wanna drop the money for it, just borrow one from Autozone, Pepboys, whatever. They all loan tools.

 

If I'm not mistaken it has 4ea 10 or 13mm nuts holding the fan clutch to the water pump.

 

This. There is no 41mm nuts or bolts associated with a water pump. I'll look in the service manual.

Nothing in the service manual either for a huge wrench.

 

But the clutch stil needs to be held to loosen the other nuts/bolts. Just going by memory here which is suspect.

 

I have always just held one of the fan blades to keep it from turning while I unbolted the clutch from the pump shaft.

Never needed anything else.

 

Leaving the belt tensioned while removing the nuts will keep the water pump pulley from turning also.

 

This. Loosen the 4 nuts with the belt installed, then finger tighten them when going together. Reinstall belt before final tightening.

 

Or a prybar. Use it over one of the 4 bolts, under the next, and use your third hand to loosen one of the other two bolts (that are not blocked by the prybar.

 

I guess I am handicapped. I only have two hands. Maybe I can get disability payments!