I think that is a smart move. Not worth taking the chance. There will always be more shows.

It happened to me one time with a blower motor I had and it scared me big time.
I noticed a puddle on the ground and checked things out and saw the pump was leaking but I had to get it home.

I watch the temp gauge more then I did the road. Luckily I wasn't too far from home and I got it back safely.

 

If it was into town and back, I wouldn't let it worry me so much (unless it takes those 15 miles to get into town). You could always do the run it for a short bit, let it cool down, add more coolant, then run it again technique. Been there with that one. A leak is only going to get worse. It could start a waterfall next month, next year, or within a mile of driving.

 

Is a stock 69 v8 water pump what I ask for at the parts place? Looks like napa has a tru flow for only $28

 

I looked up on autozone and napa and the waterpump for 68 and 69 v8 doesn't have the heater core outlet on the top. Should I be looking for something different?

 

On the Napa site, look at the rear view of the pump. You can see the angled hole at the top above the rear plate.
You either reuse your existing fitting, or buy a new one. Don't forget to use a thread sealer (not RTV/silicone).
Do not ask for a pump for a 68, it will be the wrong one. Get one for a 69.

 

Ahhhhh... I see it now. Just ordered that one.
Thx again

 

Should the heater core hose fitting in the intake manifold also be 3/8 npt like the water pump?
Thanks