I'm about to replace the water pump on my Aerostar . the Repair manual states that the radiator must be removed prior to pump removal........ is radiator removal absolutely necessary ? or can the shroud and the fan/clutch assy be removed with the radiator in place ?

'98 Grand Am here. Last fall it was making cold air - this spring there's none. Blower runs strong but only blows warm air. I checked the freon using DIY gauge & it showed it was around 27 PSI - or the lower end of so called "filled" range. Can't see any sign that the compressor is running. The drive pulley (over the compressor clutch) is turning OK. Noticed there is fraying on one edge of the engine drive belt - if that provides any clues. What's likely to be going on here. Can I get this thing going again by myself? I'm a pretty handy auto DIY"er - even if I have to say so myself (grin). Any help will be much appreciated. Best regards, Dick