M103, opinions needed on accessory replacement

[Hit Man X]

Just jerked the head to R&R due to leaking gasket on back of the block... we all know the one. Also, pulled the lower timing cover to fix a persistent leak down there on the left front corner (exhaust side).

My water pump is from 2003, should I change it since I am this far in? What about the fan bearing bracket as it is from 2005? Part of me says 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' but my wiser self tells me to replace as access will never be easier.

What would you guys do?

[jake12tech]

No reason to replace the bracket, if the water pump spins at a good speed and the clutch is good, doesn't make noise, don't bother. Just cause the pump is old doesn't mean it's bad.

[Mike Murrell]

The H2O pump in my M103 is about 18 yrs. old and still ticking.

[Ferdman]

X, it depends on the mileage since you last replaced both parts. If over 100,000 miles I would replace the fan bearing bracket because that requires major disassembly to remove/replace. The water pump would be a coin toss for me, but would lean toward replacing it also. As with most things, it depends how valuable your time is relative to the cost of preventive maintenance.

[optimusprime]

I thought i might have to change my head gasket as water was running from the back of my cyl head. But after further inspection it tiurned out to be the outlet for the head, to in car heater ,. And the part in question is for them both heater out let and engine lifting bracket and its bolted to the head with three allen bolts.After its removed .Thats if you have an easy removal , because the bolts corrode . And this is due to coolant leaking on to the lifting eye bracket and the allen bolts.. The back of the bracket is a O ring that wants replacing ..Hope this helps others

[Diseasel300]

Mileage would be the determining factor for me. That and available funds. If they don't have huge mileage, leave well enough alone. There's nothing to suggest a brand new one would be any better anyway. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

[Hit Man X]

Water pump has about 107k on it, bearing bracket about 10k less. The older I become, the more my time is worth.

Guess I will order them tonight.