I just bought a 97 Cherokee and I just took off the water pump sense the previous owner said there was many problems with it well I just took it off and it seems like the little fan in there cut up something in wondering if it should be fixed or what? Heres a pic of it




It's the chrome part that I'm worried about

 

How wobbly was the shaft on the old pump? Looks like the impeller was moving back and forth. I'd put in the new pump and not worry much about it.

 

x2

 

Really wobbly there were cut marks were the pulley dug into the water pump

 

There is only one solution. A new (not reman or rebuilt) water pump.

Don't try to economize when it comes to cooling system parts. Way too important.

And while you're doing the water pump, review all other cooling system parts. Radiator, radiator cap, thermostat, fan clutch, serpentine belt.

 

I already need to replace the radiator it was completely destroyed, I'm most likely am going to get a new thermostat, the previous owner got a new belt and it seems fine

 

Do the thermostat while your in there. Cheap and while it's apart very easy preventive maintenance.