Water Pump and Thermostat

[phinleft]

The water pump on the CJ has started leaking and draining the cooling system. I am going to replace it in a week or two, but wanted to get everyones oppinion. When I replace it, should I replace the thermostat at the same time. If so what temp thermostat is suggested for a 76 CJ5 ? Anything else I should consider replacing while it is apart?

 

[Sasquach]

You may want to check your timing chain slack to see if it's past due, you would be part of the way there doing the water pump. There is a method for doing that and it amounts to turning your crank via the harmonic balancer bolt with a wrench and using the degree marks while watching for camshaft movement. I checked mine while the fuel pump was out and you can see the camshaft thru the opening, I had 4-5 degrees free play and read you are good to 10 but can't confirm that.

 

[dslywalker]

It would be a good idea to remove the radiator also.It only takes 4 more bolts and opens up a world of space to work in.Give the radiator a good hosing when its out.

 

[Petescj]

Thats a good piece of info there. Thank you.

You may want to check your timing chain slack to see if it's past due, you would be part of the way there doing the water pump. There is a method for doing that and it amounts to turning your crank via the harmonic balancer bolt with a wrench and using the degree marks while watching for camshaft movement. I checked mine while the fuel pump was out and you can see the camshaft thru the opening, I had 4-5 degrees free play and read you are good to 10 but can't confirm that.

 

[Cheepjeep85]

180 deg will work, some use 190-195. i have a 160 in mine i'll change it out when it comes winter time to a 180 or 190. anyhow it is a good idea to change it out while you have the cooling system open t-stats are cheap.

 

[MDJEEPER]

Don't forget to check all of your hoses too!

I recently had to do the same thing. Started with the water pump...which then led to changing the radiator hoses...then discovered the radiator was completely trashed inside...then changed the thermostat...and then found that one of the heater hoses had a bulge in it!

Of course, hopefully you will have better luck than I've had...having!

Moral of the story: check it all while you are doing the job and replace everything you are not absolutely sure about!

 

[Old Dog]

It's amazing how one thing always leads to another.
All good info above, check it all and change what ever needs it.

 

[Cheepjeep85]

yep the more small petty stuff you change now thats one less chance you have of breakin down on the side of the road or trail. remember the thing is over 30 years old the smallest things are usually what leaves you broke down.