Water pump!

[TheCaptain]

Right in the middle of installing a new water pump on my '97  2.5L TJ.  The old one is the reverse flow model with the "R" stamped on the impeller.
The new re-man. pump doesn't have this stamp since it's not a OEM part, but the vanes are facing the same way and is an identical twin over all.

Eventhough the new one isn't stamped because it isn't straight from the factory, can I assume that since the vanes are facing the same way that this would indeed be a reverse flow model?

Anyone have any input?  The Jeep is currently in mid-repair as this little detail has put a halt to the project.  Any help would be much appreciated! 

[Rubi03 jef]

call your parts supplier .. NAPA  or even the stelership

[Immortal]

I would think that as long as the vanes are in the same direction that it would be the same pump.

[hps4evr]

x2 on the vanes being the same way. aftermarket parts arent always perfect to a T. and calling napa will get you a confused parts guy on the other end. they know what a box is and a niumber on it, whats inside is a mistery to them.

[mike s]

Vane direction will determine rotation. If the impellers look the same you'll be okay. Aftermarket parts can have all sorts of stampings and minor differences. As long as the mounting surfaces are the same and impellers match, you've got the right pump. Check for bolt holes that aren't blind and go through to the water jacket. Be sure to use thread sealant on any bolts like that.