Hi -- I expect to change out a faulty water pump in the next few days on my 3.8L S/C engine and plan to exchange other parts so as to avoid any potential damages resulting from wear and tear -- the radiator hoses, thermostat, etc. I understand there are two nylon or plastic elbows somewhere near the front (vehicle RH side) of the engine, perhaps near the alternator?? I am not sure exactly where they are located but figure to find them as I begin to tear parts off. I have been told that to replace these is not a difficult task and is also not expensive. I also heard that it is best to get the GM branded part rather than aftermarket due to fit tolerances. Has anyone else heard this and does anyone have the GM part number for these elbows? Just out of curiosity, where are they located on the engine? Much Thanks.

Here's a couple of write ups for you:
GM 3800 II Tensioner & Idler Pulleys Replacement Guide

Main Drive Belt Tensioner Removal Procedure and Bypass Elbows '99-'03 (with GM part numbers)

Changing the water pump isn't hard at all, good luck man. the worst part about it is having to unbolt the PS pump but you don't even have to take it off, just unbolt it and swing it out of the way. Everything you're talking about doing should only take you a few hours if you've never done it before.

The plastic elbows are cheap and they like to break, make sure you don't lose any pieces in the LIM when you pull them out.

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'05 WRX STi - COBB Stage 2|Invidia DP|3" Borla XR-1|Coilovers|Camber Plates|Swaybars|Endlinks|Bushings|Braces|Anti Lift Kit|DBA4000s|SS lines|
Sold: 06 Cobalt SS/SC, 99 GTP 245WHP/326 Ft-lbs, 06 R6

Thanks for the replies. BlackArrow that second link you provided gives great detail. I may give this a try next week if the weather cooperates. Thanks again.

You're welcome, and be sure to use thread sealant on the water pump bolts. No point in having it leak after it's back together..

Good call! Permatex PTFE sealant is what you want.

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'05 WRX STi - COBB Stage 2|Invidia DP|3" Borla XR-1|Coilovers|Camber Plates|Swaybars|Endlinks|Bushings|Braces|Anti Lift Kit|DBA4000s|SS lines|
Sold: 06 Cobalt SS/SC, 99 GTP 245WHP/326 Ft-lbs, 06 R6

How about on the pump gasket? Any sealant on it? One side? Both Sides? What type?

No sealant needed on the gasket. Just make sure you get the aluminum one. Not paper, not plastic.

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'05 WRX STi - COBB Stage 2|Invidia DP|3" Borla XR-1|Coilovers|Camber Plates|Swaybars|Endlinks|Bushings|Braces|Anti Lift Kit|DBA4000s|SS lines|
Sold: 06 Cobalt SS/SC, 99 GTP 245WHP/326 Ft-lbs, 06 R6