I thought it was my a/c failing when there was just some brown crap here and there.

Then this morning I drove my truck to work and it's just dumping what appears to be coolant from the front of the motor... and my best guess is the water pump. it's only at 100k miles.

Is this abnormal?

 

Some get 150k, some get 40k. If the coolant looks something other than orange, I'd do a system flush. Then a new water pump and all new coolant hoses.

 

are the pumps really as cheap as I've seen or is there something I'm missing? $35 on ebay? I won't buy it there but that's all I've seen for prices. thanks for the reply

 

I found this for you. Not as cheap as you found though.

https://www.dodgeparts.com/oe_parts_catalog.html

 

My 04.5 has 105k and is starting to leak some radiator fluid from the front. I had it checked at the Dodge dealership and they were going to charge me about 750 for an OEM water pump (12 month/12k miles warranty), an antifreeze flush and serpentine belt (plus the labor). I stopped by Autozone and picked up some antifreeze, the belt, the water pump (limited lifetime warranty), and a 190 degree thermostat for $135. I'm not a mechanic, but I'll play one this weekend Wish me luck.

 

Mine made it to 100K.. Its 3 bolts, easy as pie

 

you'll be fine just take your time and you'll get it.

 

here is a real quick write up i did on replacing the
water pump and thermostat on an 04.5.

its only two bolts and is very easy. remember to
remove the factory airbox for easier reach-in on
the water pump bolts.

https://www.dieselbombers.com/5-9-li...placement.html