H3 Cooling system, water pump, thermostat repair advice.

[rascole]

I just finished my front end suspension repairs and PCM upgrade. I had the engine idling to let the PCM calibrate and I noticed that there was an intermittent rattle noise. Well it appears that my water pump is going out. Small amount of coolant is weeping out and there is a visible wobble of the fan and clutch. I have already ordered my parts from Amazon, pump, clutch, thermostat, both hoses, and temperature sending unit, all AC Delco OE.. The belt has less than 5k miles on it and it is in good shape.
1. How long has it taken those in the past before it completely fails?
2. Are there any other parts I should replace or look at other than those I listed?
3. I have only ever replaced water pumps on SB/BB Chevys before, how hard is this project?
4. Any tips to make it easier?
Thanks for any help.

 

[H3HummerLineX]

If it's an I5.. Remove the fan shroud and fan, drain fluid, remove belt and water pump pulley, remove bolts from water pump and remove. It's not all that bad actually.


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[rascole]

Yes, I5. I've watched a few videos and read some post. But sometimes there are people that may have a better way.

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[Bigunit]

Mine just gave out Friday at 76k mi.

 

[06 H3]

I helped kyle with his when he had his H3, its not that bad of a job. Changing the thermostat isnt bad but more of a PITA because of its location.

 

[SedonaBound]

Mine just gave out Friday at 76k mi.

So it wasn't the new radiator. It's worth mentioning that the usual "ring around the collar" of coolant under the hood for a bad WP wasn't there on yours. Did you have to flatbed it all the way home?

 

[Bigunit]

SB,
Good point worth mentioning. Yes, had the T towed from Prescott to Tucson (200 mi.) for free plus a free 2 day rental to get home thanks to AAA Premiere membership. Would have been a $1,000 tow and a $225 one-way car rental without AAA coverage.

 

[rascole]

I had "ring around the collar" too but very minor.

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[rwbagnato]

water pump failed around 130,000
thermostat was replaced shortly after purchase at 110,000

The water pump is one of the easiest I have done. I removed the fan shroud, pulled the lower rad hose to drain the system. It's pretty self explanatory. If I can help in any way feel free to send me a PM.