Pulled the old water pump off of my engine today and noticed there was no gasket between the back plate and the engine block. Is there supposed to be one there?

 

Be sure you get the correct one.

 

I am referring to the plate that is between the water pump and the block. There is no gasket between that plate and the block. I know there should be one between the pump and plate. but it has been a long time since I have changed one.

 

 

What is that gasket called

 

Timing cover gasket or front cover gasket.

FEL-PRO TCS13417, which is actually the timing chain gasket set and includes the water pump gasket, fuel pump gasket, front seal, and oil pan front seal. FEL-PRO TCS45270 is the same thing but also includes the repair sleeve if the harmonic balancer is scored where it runs in the front seal. Note that replacing this gasket means that the harmonic balancer has to come off.

 

if you pull the balancer with the correct puller is it ok to reuse the balancer or would it need replaced?

 

The only reason to replace the balancer is if the rubber is deteriorating and coming out.

 

And if the timing cover is off, replace the timing chain.