Water Pump Replaced after 32,000 Miles

[Idaho Red Rocket 3]

Yesterday I replaced the water pump on the 2K S. The pump was replaced at 45K just before I purchased the car with 48K on it. A few weeks ago at 77K on it now, the pump begins to howl. Checked it out and found movement in the bearing and that dry bearing sound. No leak or cooling problems. So the search for an affordable pump begins. I found all the name brand pumps between $300 and $400. Not what I think it should cost for such a small piece. I found a new pump made in USA at Napa and Car Quest. Napa at $135 and Car Qwest at $172. Neither were in stock so I asked both to order it in. When they came in I inspected both. They were from the same manufacturer just marketed through the 2 different venders. Here is where the controversy begins. They both have metal impellers. Hmmmm? Do I do it or not?

I decide to go for the Napa at $135. I also ordered a low temp t-stat from another vender because Napa only had the OEM temp t-stat. When I pulled out the old pump the plastic impeller and everything else looked just fine. Bad dry bearing sound and a little movement in the shaft. Installed new pump and low temp t-stat and all is well. Nice to see lower temps on the gauge.

Why can't we just get the bearing and seal replaced for a few bucks when this fails ???

Bill