im replaceing my water pump, bad bearing or something, squeels alot, anyway, do you have to put any type of sealant on the gaskats? i though i heard no, but i want to make sure, also would it be smart to get the higher flowing w/p from autozone for around $50, or stay with the stock new one i got?
also should i get some new bolts for the w/p because the one that where in there had a rubber type stuff on them but it is kinda ripped in places.

thanks!

 

you dont need to use any type of sealant on the gaskets. I have a cheapo world class replacement pump and it works great. With the new radiator, water pump, and hypertech cool fan switch it runs around 160-170. Car runs real good

 

It's always a good idea to buy some RTV Permatex gasket sealer. For the price only a few $ it's worth the investment.

 

At least one bolt goes into the water jacket, so you need to use some kind of non-hardening sealant on them. I prefer either Loctite PST pipe thread sealer with Teflon or Permatex 300. I don't use silicone, eventually it always tears and causes leaks, due to the relative motion of the parts with temperature change.

 

so i can get away with putting none on the gaskets, but i should just in case?

 

use either or but never both

 

I didnt use anything on the bolts or gasket. I havent had a problem yet.

 

It's up to you. Some say you don't need too.
I usually use some sort of RTV or form a gasket just to be safe
because it is a pain to have to take it apart and do it again if it does leak.
You don't need new bolts either. The rubber like stuff on the bolts is probably just the remains of sealant from the last time it was changed. Just clean them up and you should be good to go.

 

Permatex makes thermostat housing/water pump gasket sealant. I found it at Pep Boys.