I got a 2001 with the 2.4. I can run it for 15-20 minutes to get it hot. Well the upper radiator hose is VERY hot but the lower one is not hot at all. I can grab it and hold on forever. The top one I can barely touch it for a micro second. I thought the thermostat was stuck so I changed it. Still does the same thing. I get good heat from the heater so I assumed the pump was fine. I know the heater core is nothing but a heat exchanger and if water is not moving though it eventually it will cool the core off to a point of no heater warmth, but it does not, stays hot like it should...
I dont want to change the pump but it is sounding like its the issue.

ANY one else have this issue or able to direct me to whats going on?

Also if its the pump any one have a good write up on replacing it?

 

Is the radiator clogged?

 

No its super clean on the inside.