water pump emplacement

[crankor]

I dropped off my car to a mechanic to locate a coolant leak and they are saying it's most definitely the water pump. I ve seen a shortcut way of doing this without removing the timing cover but not sure if its recommended. so I'm wondering if I should do ir the long way or easier way and if there are any full videos of the process to make it easier for myself. I've only found ones after the cover is off and I don't think any torque specs were mentioned

Oh the garage doesn't want to replace it due to tge labor and said it would cost around 2k... hence why I'll be doing it mysef.

[VStar650CL]

Nissan doesn't recommend it that I'm aware of on longitudinal VQ's (and I'm not sure it's even possible). The tran-sverse engines are a different story, the shortcut is recommended and you'll find it in the FSM. The FSM for your FX says pull the timing cover. See CO-20 here:
https://www.nicoclub.com/service-manual ... 1%2FCO.pdf

[crankor]

I'll have to check when I get it back. I'm not sure if mine even has the little windows that expose the pump and tensioner. That guide will be very helpful thanks