Note: I've posted this on another forum, as well, but don't seem to be getting much response. I just thought I'd mention that, since some get upset when a person does this.

My water pump is beginning to leak at 150,000 miles on the clock. Obviously, I'm probably going to do the upgrade for the higher volume pump, etc., but have a few questions.

I noticed someone saying a while back that they had to grind on the PS/alt. bracket for something to fit. How much grinding and where, exactly? Also, is there anything else that requires modifications?

How many hours are in this job. The pump appears to be similar to those on the old Pontiac engines, which are completely different from the regular chevy gas block. Is this correct? Is there anything else that I should be changing out while I'm this far into it?

Who is running what thermostat? I've never seen an aftermarket t-stat that I was satisfied with, which is why I always run OEM t-stats. Does anyone have reasons to run anything otherwise?

If all the kit parts are the same, then who has the best pricing on them?

Thanks in advance,
SnowDrift
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Look at www.rockauto.com (http://www.rockauto.com/) all the pieces together are $150 usd. They sell OEM ac-delco parts.

The grinding/drilling has to be done in a recess on the bracket because the '98 watercrossover comes out further and hits it.

I would also change the timing gears and chain as it's behind the water pump and not too much more work to do it. It cost me about $130 for those parts but I think well worth it.

It turns out that my water pump isn't what's leaking. It's the cross-over tube where it bolts to the block, so I'll be removing it to replace the gaskets. Would it hurt anything to replace the cross-over with the dual t-stat one since I'll probably to that upgrade in the future, anyhow?

SnowDrift

No, but you will need a new upper radiator hose.

THATS what I would/will do try to replace somethings on a as needed base. With the crossover OR the pump coming first but not together to help me afford it. With the pump change you should also look at changing the fan clutch and maybe the fan. The timing set would be good to do at that time too.

I recently upgraded to the 97+ crossover. I bought the whole kit including the HO pump, but I couldn't bring myself to replace my perfectly functioning water pump. with 200K miles the original it could go at any time so the new one is collecting dust. The bracket which has to be trimmed is the belt tensioner pulley bracket. I clamped mine to my drill press and with a 3" hole saw cut a sliver off about 1.5" long and 3/8" deep(factory clean). My kit came with OEM style stainless steel 180 deg. stats, but I used 195 deg. robert shaws from kennedy's.