MNRon
MN
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Joined: 08/18/2007
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I have a 2002 YukonXL 3/4 TV. It has 106,000 miles and I'm wondering if I should electively replace the water pump.
The reasoning behind this is based on a couple different experiences I've had. I'm looking for others input with their experience. First, on past vehicles ('70s and '80s vintage NOT 3/4 ton) I've experienced water pumps going out around 60K miles, along with alternators, starters, etc. Second, and more to the point, I did a complete service at 100K miles and then promptly broke down in the middle of Montana when a fuel pump went out at 103K miles. This left me with a large towing and repair bill, not to mention losing a day or so on vacation.
If I had electively replaced the fuel pump in advance, the cost would have been much less than half of what it was besides the time lost. For around town break-downs I wouldn't ask the question, but when traveling and pulling it's much more problematic breaking down.
What are people's experience with GM truck water pumps? Am I at significant risk of break-down? My plan is to keep this TV for another 75K-100K miles. Should I be replacing the water pump (or other parts?) at my convenience? Or am I just being too risk averse based on my recent experience?
Thanks for your comments, and I won't hold you responsible if you say 'no' and I break down anyway (as long as you wave as you drive by) 
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MNRon
MN
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Forgot to mention I have the 8.1 gas guzzler engine.
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ed6713
FL
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Joined: 04/24/2004
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I replace belts & hoses in my driveway, at my convenience then carry the old ones as spares on long trips. I'd go ahead with the water pump then throw the old one in the spare parts box.
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broken axle
Mi.
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with over 100,000 miles I would seriously consider it and do a thourough flush of the cooling sysem and look close at all the hoses for any bulging or cracks.
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2007 GMC 2500HD duramax diesel w/ allison tranny
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drsteve
Michigan
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Joined: 06/09/2006
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Visually inspect the water pump area. Is there evidence of any leakage? Take the drive belt loose. Is there any side to side play in the pump shaft? Does it make any noise when running?
If it ain't broke I'd leave it alone.
2006 Silverado 1500HD CC 2WD 6.0L 3.73 8600 GVWR
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Gdetrailer
PA
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Joined: 01/05/2007
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Hmm... If you are that worried maybe its time to jack up the antenna and slide a new truck under? Maybe at the same time try a different brand perhaps?
I personally have run waterpumps well over 150K and that was a car from the early 70s (no, it wasn't a GM). Rebuilt the engine and put the old water pump back on.
Things do happen but being scared so much to needlessly change parts is just throwing good money out the door. Do the needed maintenance things like belts, oil changes, plugs and wires (water pumps and fuel pumps wouldn't make my list of normal maintenance).
Believe it or not, most gas vehicles now days(including the engines and related internal/external parts)) will have no problem getting over 150K without major tear down and if you did change the oil regularly perhaps 200K.
I drive em until it starts nickle and dimeing then I buy a new truck, for me the magic number is about 150K.
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Ductape
On the Road
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Joined: 11/15/2005
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If you do replace it, go to the dealer and get a brand new GM pump and pay the price.
If you put on that reman junk offered everwhere else, you've just downgraded.
Surveyor SV-234 >Equalizer> H3
Previously a fiver crew.
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Home Skillet
Pearland Texas
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Joined: 10/21/2004
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Who's to say the new pump will not be defective?
Seen it happen many times, not just on water pumps.
2005 Gulf Stream Conquest 31ft
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jc1843
So Calif
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I would think the fuel pump would be first on the replace list-- and I would pass on the water pump for now. GM fuel pumps are known to die with no warning- waterpumps do show signs of leaking at the weep hole at the bottom of the pump before they start to fail. My opinion. Jerry
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JJBIRISH
Butler, PA, USA
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Joined: 10/06/2002
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that is not preventative maintainence, its not even maintenance in my opinion...
you can not control when a old or new waterpump will fail...
you can keep the water and antifreeze and cooling system clean and free of harmful chemicals that shorten the life of the water pump...
I have just under 180,000 miles on my TV and haven't even thought about replacing the water pump, even my hoses are all OE and show no signs of needing replaced...
getting ready for this winters travel, I did replace the power steering pump that was replaced about 15,000 miles ago...
expect the unexpected... every year I pass by newer vehicles broken down along the road, and one day it will be my turn... that is just the way it happens...
Love my mass produced, entry level, built by Lazy American Workers, Hornet
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