My 97 4runner is about to hit 90k. I don't currently have any water pump problems, but I am wondering if I should replace it while I am doing the t-belt. What do you guys recommend? I think my water pump would probably last another 90k, but that might be a gamble.

 

It's hit or miss. The only way you will really know it is going out is if it starts to weep.

If I was going to keep the rig for a while I will have it done.

 

i am a bit anal about service work AND I hate doing the same thing twice. While you are replacing the belts, put in a new water pump. you have noithing to lose (except $$$) and the reassurance that your pump won't fail.

 

On my 22RE, I can losen the crank pulley bolt by bracng my breaker bar against the frame and hitting the starter. Would there be any reason I can't do this on the 4runner?

 

I decided to replace my timing belt at 80K and found a leaking water pump when it was torn down (No prior indication of a leak).
Do yourself a favor and replace the pump before it fails.

 

On the flip side of that, I just sold a 97 4Runner with 197K miles that never had the WP replaced.

Risky, but possible.

 

No reason at all, that's how I loosened mine when I did the timing belt.

 

Mine is at 135k and after 2 timing belts it still doesn't weep.
Next timing belt I will do it anyway just for good measure (will probably jinx myself).