The Haynes manual says remove AC compressor and Steering pump on their mounting block without disconnecting any lines an somehow place it aside. Are they kidding? Each YouTube video shows a different configuration and method, none of which are 1996. I can just figure it out as I proceed, but is there any good reference that can be recommended?
thanks in advance

 

The AC and P/S block access to 2 or 3 of the water pump bolts, if memory serves, been awhile

Heads up, the fan clutch is REVERSE threads on a 3.0l

Another heads up, the 3.0l has the timing chain cover with 2 coolant passages for the water pump, the gasket for these 2 passages can blow out and leak, can leak INTO the oil pan or more likely out of the sides so can look like a water pump leak

Front of 3.0l with timing chain cover removed: https://www.therangerstation.com/for...538-jpg.23236/
You can see the two coolant passages

Timing cover here: https://www.reddit.com/media?url=htt...3dsu20rp71.jpg

Hate for you to have to do it all over if the water pump is not the leak, or the only leak, so have a good look

 

Ron, You nailed it! I am currently experiencing what you describe on my 2003 3.0L where the leak is from the timing cover not the water pump at 328K miles on original Water Pump. Thanks for all the help you give.

 

This is very interesting. Upon further inspection, its the gasket between the pump and engine block that's leaking. The pump shaft looks fine. I wonder if the Bars Leak product would provide a permanent fix. Anybody with experience there?

 

^ the pump sits on top of the timing cover not the engine block as Ron mentioned. They do make a gasket kit to replace the leaky timing cover, I would do both while you're at it the pump and the timing cover gasket. HTH.