without sounding stupid, [pretty easy for me !
] big block pumps are somewhat easy to disassemble if one has access to [or owns] a shop press.
before using the press, accurately measure the distance the fan attaching block is from the housing so it can be reinstalled in the proper position.
make sure to properly support the housing so you don't break it pressing the shaft out. practicing on a junk pump is a good idea if one has never used a press before.
once the shaft is out, it is easy to see how the bearings and seal[s] are arranged/pressed on the shaft and into the housing. carefully remove using supports and other means to remove the bearings and seals.
in almost every instance, the bearings and seals have identifying numbers on them so replacements can be obtained.
after obtaining new bearings and seals, reassemble in the reverse, making sure the fan attaching block ends up in the original location, so pulley alignment does not change.
with all that said, is it worth the effort ? it depends..........
if you are restoring your ride and are sure the water pump is original, or has the casting numbers you need and want, maybe so.
for the vast majority of the rest of us, no. just buy a new pump and be done with it.
however, if one wants to learn how a pump is put together and what the internals look like, the only way to learn stuff is to take the item apart. even if you don't put it back together and just toss the parts in the junk pile, at least you saw how it was assembled and what was inside, even if you broke the housing in the press because you didn't have it supported correctly.
i have wasted a huge amount of time and effort over the years "breaking" parts just to "see" inside them.
just my old guy experience. your mileage will vary.
