Not really sure if there is a way to test a pump. But with a system as nasty as yours was, 30 bucks and a couple hours labor is a small price to pay even if it's for nothing more than peace of mind.

 

I had similar issues and just kept plugging away and replacing components. A new OEM radiator from Advanced Auto Parts, $110 with new cap helped a bunch but, the main culprit turned out to be the fan clutch. I replaced the clutch and at idle in traffic with the a/c going, temp is just a tick over 210.

 

You've got a good point there chip maker. I do like peace of mind. I might just replace the radiator, fan clutch, and pump all at the same time. Would make it easier honestly. Won't be for a couple weeks though. I'll update later. Thanks guys!

 

Update*

So I chose to just replace the entire cooling system. Just been gathering up all the parts and components as well as getting cosmetics for the front. Just going to do it all at once.

Heater core went out in October. Really not sure what caused it. Just started leaking in the floor board pulling into a buddies house one day. Bypassed it and replaced it a week or two later. Safe to say the hardest part of the cooling system has been completed.

In the summer, the fan shroud cracked which caused the fan to scrape it. I just broke it off because I was hot and it pissed me off. How integral is the fan shroud to the cooling system's efficiency? I realize it's a minute piece that can be easily replaced but just wondering. The more you know!

Just to go over the check list for you guys.

I have a new water pump, hoses, heater core, and fan clutch.

Currently shopping for a new radiator and wouldn't mind some input. I'm looking for cheap oem. Any advice on amount of rows? Plastic vs. Aluminum? Like I said, I would prefer OEM but I may consider an upgrade.

Got to get the thermostat as well and wasn't sure about 180 or 195.

I have red RTV sealant. Read something about using blue on the water pump. Does it matter? Can i just use the red? Is there a difference?

I think that about sums it up. If I missed anything, please let me know. Thanks!

 

Use a 195 thermostat, i have a 180 in mine and it stays at 180. Go figure lol, should be at least 190 imo.

I had the same problems as you. I had to leave the jeep in storage for 3 years and the coolant was a rusty mud mess. It started overheating so i started replacing cooling parts, very last component replaced was the mech fan clutch and that was the cause of the overheats. Im glad i have a whole new cooling system now though.

I ran with no fan shroud for years and it never got hotter than 210, even in phoenix az.

Make sure you get all the rusty crud out of the bottom of the overflow bottle, i just spayed water in with a hose to break it up and sucked it out with a shop vac.

 

Yeah I just like the idea of everything being new. That sense of security that it will last a few years i guess, so I'm just going to replace it all.

Will go with the 195 and see how she does. I may put a shroud on. Still contemplating. Yeah when i flushed it i sprayed all that crud out and scrubbed it with a big flexible scrubber. It's cleaner now but still has that crud cycling through it so i will do it again.

Thanks for the tips!