Guys,

I've found a small hairline crack in my T-stat housing (barely losing any coolant). I went ahead and ordered a new one in.

I've read up on many guides and I understand it can be a tricky processes.

My question concerns the water pump. Since I have most of that area cleared away, is it common to go ahead and change the water pump at this time as well?

 

A few 1/4" drive extensions and an 8mm wobble socket will help you to get the throttle body off the manifold.

I don't know if its common, but the water pumps are pretty cheap, so why not.