Our 2000 SLE (non-supercharged) now has 165k on it and has been leaking some coolant (upper intake area) for awhile. I plan on replacing the lower intake (GM alum. gaskets), (alum. elbows), upper intake with gaskets (New APN type) and valve cover gaskets this weekend and getting rid of the DEX coolant. Question I have is should I replace the water pump while I'm in there? (don't think it has ever been replaced)....

For the most part: my logic. If ain't broke, don't fix it. Most everything that came on the car is a better part than the aftermarket junk that are replacement parts.

But that being said I changed my waterpump and have had zero issues with it so far. If you want piece of mind it might be worth it to buy a name brand one, otherwise I'd leave it well enough alone.

Just my $0.02

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Clay
1997.2 40th SLE-138k
1968 Bonneville 400ci w/TH-400-40k
1999 GMC Suburban SLT-191k
2005 Escalade 253k-GINA

Not sure on that body styel as I have a 98. I don't know what all you have to remove to do the work you're planning.

but on mine, I had to remove the alternator and a fw other things just to do the water pump. If you have to do that, you might as well do the water pump while you're at it.

If not, I wouldn't bother.

One recommendation I would make though, if you do the water pump, is get a good nylon gasket. When I first put mine on, I only used the generic felt gasket that came with it. That was a waste of time. Ended up ripping it back off and replacing it with a nylon one which was less than $10. Also, make sure you THOROUGHLY clean the side of the motor where the pump attaches. Get that thing nice and shiny. If you leave any gun on there, you won't get a good seal.

Since the coolant will already be drained and you'll have extremely easy access to the area, I'd do it.

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Andrew - owner/operator of Bonnevilles Unlimited

2004 Bonneville GXP | 60k | White Gold Tricoat | custom built supercharged 3800 hot rod | garage queen
1997 Corvette | 55k | Silver Metallic | Z06 wheels | Date-night Hauler/Parts runner
2014 Town & Country Limited | Cashmere Pearl | 95k | Family Hauler
2002 Ram 1500 Quad Cab Sport | Black| 260k | Official Bonneville Hauler

I agree, change it and flush the radiator and heater core too. You are that far, you might as well make sure the whole system is top notch.