You'd better hope it doesn't happen to you. This was by far the most frustrating job I've done on a car. My friend Patrick, who worked with me said he had an easier time removing his Chrysler 2.2 block!
I just drafted this, I don't think I forgot anything, but this is basically the procedure. It is listed in my FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS on my site:

http://members.csinet.net/tisch/maxima
http://members.csinet.net/tisch/maxima/waterpumpVE.doc

 

I replaced the water pump over the weekend, and it wasn't nearly as traumatic as you describe. Maybe your car has some other options (I've read that ABS can make it more difficult), but for me the worst obstacle was the little timing mark pointer! I tried to pull it out, but ended up just working around it. It took a couple of 90 degree turns to get the pump out, but it was really pretty easy. The only parts I removed (other than the pulleys) were the alternator adjusting bracket and the A/C idler roll & bracket. It took all of about 10 minutes with an assist from my wife to put it back in, and that's only because I put my fat thumb in the silicone on the first try. Bottom line is the dealer wanted $500 to do this, and I'm sure glad I decided to give it a try.

 

I'm glad to hear you didn't have any trouble like I did. I venture to guess there may be more room in the 5 speed model. I don't know though. I just needed another inch or so because it was not coming out. Glad it didn't take up your whole day.

 

I did it earlier this year. boy-o-boy I wish the FSM was better at this one . I then added a bunch of steps to the FSM. I could probably do it in the dark now.

 

It is easy to unbolt but good luck taking it out. I unbolted mine couldnt get it out so I bolted it back up and took it to the shop.

 

Hehehe....welcome to the club Bryan! It was hard for me too. That sucker wouldnt come out and it wouldnt go back in!

 

I have a complete write - up about the procedure on my site for future reference. I also have James' post too.