The picture below is from the Clymer book (I know it's not the best source of truth) and it recommends to apply sealant to the surface indicated within the black arrows. What about the surface indicated with purple arrows near the coolant passage?  Do you guys apply sealant there? TIA!

When you remove the pump, I think you'll see an O-ring there, in a groove on the engine face. You can see it on the other drawing above it.

daveyson wrote:When you remove the pump, I think you'll see an O-ring there, in a groove on the engine face. You can see it on the other drawing above it.

Sorry daveyson, but I'm not sure I follow.  Do I also need to put sealant on mating surface highlighted with the purple arrows?

No you don't need sealant there, the O - ring will seal the joint there. You can buy one before you start the job and just replace the O - ring, even if it looks good.

It will make a lot more sense after you remove it and can take a look at it.

daveyson wrote:No you don't need sealant there, the O - ring will seal the joint there.

Gotcha, thanks daveyson for the clarification. I have indeed a brand new O-ring to place there.  Thanks again, cheers!