Nice link. :thumbup:

When you replace the water pump you disconnect the water circuit so obviously you loose the coolant :rolleyes: which is a good cause now you can replace it with fresh one. :p

Water Pump Removal
 

I'll be doing mine this weekend on the 4.4 liter. I've looked at the electronic repair manual and it's pretty basic. Remove fan shroud, remove fan (you will need two special wrenches), remove belt, and remove pulley from hamonic balancer. Since I'm already "there", I'll be replacing the thermostat too.

but when u put new coolant in, you just dump it in there? I think you have to bleed the system, where those bleeders located on 01 x5 3.0L ?

I will think that you add the coolant in the reservoir tank.

Why replacing the pump? How do you detect problem ahead? Where to buy a pump replacement?

Shine the light down there at the pump and look for leaks, I'm assuming that if it goes bad there will be plenty of coolant leaking and the loss of coolant will make your temp gauge go to the hot side.
You can buy a replacement from our sponsor Morristown Bmw, they got reasonable prices.

I pulled the water pump and radiator today. with 98k miles I think it's time. there are a BUNCH of hoses on order. the hoses alone will run you over $200.

Nice job fast4d, and on the v8 too.

BTW, are you also on Corner-carvers?