Refitting Water Pump O ring

I have just spent 4 hours in the sun replacing my water pump ( most of that time wrestling with hose clamps).
On refilling the system there is a leak from behind the pump, so I am guessing the o ring is not properly in place.
i have read that you shouldn’t use sealants or instant gasket and the like, so how do you keep the o ring in place as you place the pump against the engine?

Any tips for dealing with those hose clamps would also be appreciated.

Either your o ring wasn't seated properly as you said or the mating surface on the block is corroded and pitted. There's no reason not to use a gasket sealant, as long as you use it sparingly. As for the clips, I use the hose clamp pliers with the cable on them. It makes it easier to get into them awkward spots. Just bare in mind that if you buy a cheap set, they won't last 5 minutes.

I can't see how I can hold the o ring in place as I offer up the water pump without sticking it in the grove with something as it is lightly downward facing, so I will give it a go again in the morning with some sealant holding it.
Thanks.

If you really don't want to use sealant, use some silicone grease to hold it in place while you fit the pump.

Try a non setting sealer like hylomar blue, or maybe school wood glue PVA, something soluble in water.
when done you will be happier not to revisit for few years.

I'm sure I just put a dab of grease, or something similar, on the seal to hold it.

Thanks all. I have both sealant and PVA glue to hand, so I will give it a go in the morning.

Make sure the engine block is clean and smooth, I used a bit of wet and dry paper to smooth the surface on the block then a little bit of grease to hold the O ring in place   On the water pump then bolt up the water pump, little nip up all the bolts before torquing them all up.

I'm sure it was but did you a use new seal?

So to update you on the issue, I just spent 2 hours redoing what took 5 hours yesterday, so clearly I have learnt something!
Having taken the pump off, reseated it on a new o ring and bolted it down, I refilled before putting the alternator back on.
It was leaking again, it took 15 minutes of close inspection, drying the block, and trying to look from all angles to realise one of the hoses was emitting a very fine spray out the back where you can't see.
Fortunately it was so near the end I could move the clamp and solve the problem.

Thanks for all the replies. I am sure the wisdom gained will help someone else too.

Best thing I did/do  is buy complete set of hoses from b&b components  on ebay.. for mk1 and mk2 70£ each set.. at least then have a spare to put on if think perished, I've got a set of roosemotor sport in silicon to fit also but they was like 300 when bought.  And I cant be bothered to fit just yet ,since engine bay not detailed