Water Pump Replacement??

Hey guys, I recently purchased a 2002 Tacoma Regular Cab; 2.7L 4x4; 166K miles. The previous owner (one owner) seemed to take good care of the truck, but as far as I know had never replaced the water pump. Is this something that I should automatically assume needs replacing at this mileage?

When negotiating the price, I inquired about the timing belt, and he told me that it had never been replaced either. When I called the dealership to ask about pricing, the mechanic informed me this model does not have a timing belt, but a chain that does not typically need to be replaced. From reading other posts it seems that most tacomas have timing belts??? any thoughts??

Thanks!

 

You have a timing chain, not a belt, so that doesn't need replacing. 3.4L V6s have a timing belt. And yeah, I would change out the WP just to be on the safe side.

 

If you change the pump, do the thermostat and hoses all in the same go. You've go the system drained anyway so less work in the long run.

 

Inspect the pump. If there is no leakage, or pink crust coming from the pump's driveshaft, it's fine. Keep an eye on your coolant levels, and inspect the shaft while changing the oil, you'll be fine.
Why replace a perfectly good pump and prematurely throw $100+ at your truck?

 

I agree with this post ^^^^^^

 

Thanks all for your advice...very helpful!!