What Else While Replacing Water Pump on 97 2.5L?

[SSTJ]

I'll soon be replacing the water pump on my 97 2.5L. While I'm at it, what else is worth considering?

Approx 100k miles and no mods in the engine bay.

 

[macleanflood]

When I did the timing chain on my 4.0 I did the water pump.

No idea about your rubber band engine.

-Mac

 

[SSTJ]

Seems I'll be right near the thermostat. I'll look into that too.

 

[The4bangertj]

I like doing systems together. So flush and make sure your heater core is clean, thermostat, hoses to heater core and to radiator, and good new fluid but that’s kinda given but I had a friend try and put the old coolant back in before.

 

[SSTJ]

I like doing systems together. So flush and make sure your heater core is clean, thermostat, hoses to heater core and to radiator, and good new fluid but that’s kinda given but I had a friend try and put the old coolant back in before.

I see the thermostat is sold separately from the housing. Any reason to replace that at the same time, or only if visibly damaged?

 

[The4bangertj]

I see the thermostat is sold separately from the housing. Any reason to replace that at the same time, or only if visibly damaged?

I’ve replaced with and without the housing and I see no reason to do the housing unless it’s busted or you can only find them sold together like I did once. Just clean the surface for the gasket and it’s good to go.