should i change out my water pump and thermostat?

[oz16us]

I was wondering if I should change out the water pump and thermostat to be on the safe side when changing out the coolant....I purchased the ST 2 months ago and just trying to do maintenance work or anything else that has the potential to cause future problems. So far, I do not notice any leaking...and I don't know if the previous owner changed it. Should I change these parts out any way or should I wait until I see a leak or overheat?
thanks in advance

 

[Markaprice73]

Just do the thermostat and thermostat gasket. I recommend a Motorcraft one. Test in a pot of water on the stove with a thermometer to be sure it opens at the right temp. Good to go.
No reason to change a working/none leaking water pump. (I have 160K with my original pump) Grab the upper radiator hose when at operating temp and feel for coolant flowing. Obviously, if it wasn't pushing coolant you would be overheating. Additionally, I recommend using distilled water for mixing coolant.
I know you didn't ask. But remember, just draining the coolant from the radiator is not changing all the coolant. Do a search on this site for lots of tips. Way too many different ways/options to discuss here.
My method is OCD. Lots of hoses, adapters, T's, hot water from the laundry tap, heater core forward and back, lots of distilled water drain and fills, etc...I would have to write a book to explain my method. But, there are many ways that are simple and just fine.

 

[swshawaii]

Agree with Mark if it's not leaking. The belt and pulleys tend to fail before the water pump. Very high chance the lower t-stat housing has already been replaced on your 2001 ST if you are over 100K. Removing the lower hose is a good method of draining, and much faster than the petcock's dribble. Use Ford approved Zerex G-05 coolant mixed with distilled water.

 

[oz16us]

Thanks guys...how many gallons of coolant would I need to buy before mixing it with distiller water? So I take it that the water pump just doesn't fail suddenly and leave me stranded on the road without first showing symptoms of leaking...I'd hate to be on my way to work and suddenly have it fail then have to pay for towing and then more coolant again..it would be comforting to know that the water pump gradually goes bad

 

[swshawaii]

ALL capacities are listed in the owners manual links I gave you before. Total coolant capacity is 14 quarts. You will need less than 2 gallons of straight Zerex G-05 to get a 50/50 ratio. I used all 8 quarts knowing that at least 1/2 gallon of plain water remains in the block after flushing. Regarding water pump failure, there is a weep hole that leaks coolant indicating when the seals are worn. Bearings should be OK unless the coolant was neglected before you owned the ST.

Owners Manual (Again)

http://www.fordservicecontent.com/Ford_Content/catalog/owner_guides/01p27og6e.pdf

 

[oz16us]

it sounds to me like I will be paying about $45 for 2 gallons of coolant.... considering that the water pump cost the same price, i might as well just do it all at the same time since I really don't know if it was changed by the previous owner. Once the water pump starts leaking, I'll have to pay another $45 just replace some good coolant

 

[swshawaii]

Peace of mind and probably a good call on your part. If you're going that far, check all hoses, pulleys, and the serpentine belt while you're at it. Once again, check RockAuto or Amazon pricing, OEM parts preferred. Also, a 1/2" shorter belt (K060860) has been used by many with great results and eliminates issues with slipping and noise. NAPA in your Florida area sells straight unmixed Zerex G-05 for $16.99 per quart.

http://www.napaonline.com/Catalog/C...stem-Valvoline-1-GAL/_/R-ZRXZXG051_0006409566

 

[oz16us]

Peace of mind and probably a good call on your part. If you're going that far, check all hoses, pulleys, and the serpentine belt while you're at it. Once again, check RockAuto or Amazon pricing, OEM parts preferred. Also, a 1/2" shorter belt (K060860) has been used by many with great results and eliminates issues with slipping and noise. NAPA in your Florida area sells straight unmixed Zerex G-05 for $16.99 per quart.

http://www.napaonline.com/Catalog/C...stem-Valvoline-1-GAL/_/R-ZRXZXG051_0006409566

thanks swshawaii!!! you're saving me a boatload! Your opinion is highly appreciated as always