Originally Posted By: Rat407
Originally Posted By: Kibitoshin
If its not leaking from the weep hole or not making noise I wouldn't replace it. Check for leaks between WP and block. Spin pulley and feel for roughness. Check for any noises when it's warm.
There is no good brand. I had an ACDelco OEM pump fail in less that 2 years/15,000mi due to a squealing bearing when warm. I replaced it with a NAPA (Gates) water pump so we'll see how well that pump holds up.
This, why replace what isn't broken? Not like it will leave you stranded one day. It will start to leak and then you can replace it. Heck you might get another 100k out of it. I would leave it just to see how far I could go on an original water pump. LOL
Good point if it's not currently leaking or having trouble cooling. I changed my 2001 at 80,000, but actually the gaskets were leaking, not the pump. I put on the new pump--AC Delco "Professional"--since I already had it. 38,000 later, I think that pump actually is leaking slightly at the weep hole.
If you do decide to change, it's one of the easiest WP jobs. A couple things to consider:
A spanner wrench with pegs that engage two small holes on the pulley does exist, but none of the parts stores seem to have it for loan. I ended up borrowing a generic pulley holder contraption from NAPA, and rigging it up to the pulley with 1/4" bolts. That held the pulley and I loosened the fan with a big adjustable wrench.
You'll need to make sure the new pump and thermostat are compatible. For 2001, the AC OEM pump on Rockauto has a note that says "WHEN USING IN 2000 APPLICATIONS,USE 2004 THERMOSTAT FOR SERVICE." The 2004-up pump uses a different T-stat housing, with a replaceable thermostat. The earlier style (like my stock 2001) has an integrated housing/stat, and I guess it won't fit the newer pump. AC Delco doesn't seem to offer the old style pump anymore, but GMB and Cardone do. The video posted above shows the old style pump and T-stat in the first frame.