Yes it is possible. The T-stat is near the valve cover, and since the water pump weep hole likes to drip, the wind in the engine compartment can make the liberated coolant land on different areas, making a failing water pump one of the last suspects. When the engine is cold, feel for some coolant under the water pump.

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RRGrassi


70's Southern Pacific #5608 Fairmont A-4 MOW car

13 VW JSW 2.0 TDI 193K, Tuned with DPF and EGR Delete.

99 W210 E300 Turbo Diesel, chipped, DPF/Converter Delete. Still needs EGR Delete, 232K

90 Dodge D250 5.9 Cummins/5 speed. 400K

Gone and still missed...1982 w123 300D, 1991 w124 300D