So I ended up having a coolant leak a week or so ago. Made it home and pulled out the fan and shroud thinking it was the water pump freeze plug. got things cleaned up because the coolant was everywhere from hitting the accessory drive. I started thinking and now am debating whether it is the water pump or the the seal between the water housing and intake manifold? what do you guys think? it has been sitting since I cleaned it up and there has not been any seeping leak while sitting.....could I fire this thing up without the fan connected to get it to pressurize the system?

 

You can fire it up without the fan connected. You'll probably pull a code but no biggie to clear once you've found the issue. I'd expect a water pump seal before anything else if dumping as stated.

 

I will give that a try tonight

 

Well it's the water pump. The weep hole on the very bottom of the seal surface flange is where it was coming from. Diesel site pump ordered and I am doing all the idlers, tensioner and belt while at it

 

Got everything swapped out about a week ago. No more leaks and happy new idlers, belt and tensioner.

 

Glad to hear it worked out for you.
I like the idea of replacing the peripherals while at it.
Can't make those other changes to early.