[richtazz]

No, the radiator and running the car hot for short periods will not hurt the water pump, but since you're replacing the radiator, it would be a good idea to change the t-stat while you're at it. The only thing that usually goes bad on a water pump is the shaft bearings and it's seal. The pump will start to leak out of the weep holes cast into the body of the pump near the bearings, indicating seal failure. If the water pump bearings are bad, it will cause the pulley to wobble or make noise. The only other issue that can happen on a water pump is the impeller can come off the shaft. This will allow the water pump pulley to still turn with the belt, but no coolant will be circulated. This will cause the car to overheat rather quickly.