water pump change 2sz-fe

[finnpoulsen]

Hi
My water pump makes noises and pink stuff i leaking from the pump, so I guess it's time to change it.
My only concern is the auxillary drivebelt refitting and adjustment (no AC 2sz-fe motor).
I have the Haynes repair manual which states that the lower cover panel under the car has to be removed.
Is that really necessary? Is it possible to do the water pump change and drivebelt refitting entirely working from the top of the car?
It's winter here and I would hate working on the ground ;-)

I found this pump:

http://www.toyodiy.com/parts/p_E_200...MRKW_1601.html

But since it doesn't seem to last long, are there any alternative pumps out there?
Anything else I should be aware of?

BTW, couldn't find any DIY guides anywhere on the net :-(