Hyundai Repair: 60K tune up, mile powertrain warranty, timing belt replacement

Question
Hi.
When performing the 60K timing belt replacement on my '04 elantra, does the water pump get replaced (like hondas)?  i was going to get the radiator fluid flushed (45K), but will wait until the timing belt replacement if the pump comes out.  

on another note:  the clutch had to be replaced at 36K.  i have driven many standards for over 20 years w/o this early wear problem...dealer said it was wear, and not a coverable problem..and i am usually a one, two, five kinda shifer!  anyone have this problem as well?

Answer
It's a matter of opinion whether the water pump should be replaced when the timing belt is replaced.  If you're the original owner, don't replace the water pump.  It's covered by the 10 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty.  Otherwise, use your best discretion as to whether the additional expense is worth the insurance.

I've seen Elantra clutches worn out in 8,000 miles and I've seen them last more than 100,000 miles.  Depending on exactly how you drive and your driving situations, the 1 - 2 - 5 shifting could be contributing to the problem.  I can foresee that the rpms could be high when making the 2 - 5 shift, requiring the clutch to momentarily absorb the rpm difference until the engine slows to the proper rpm for fifth gear.  While I don't think the Elantra clutch withstands abuse very well, I also haven't found any design flaws.