Update:
- installed the new water pump, idler pulley, and belts
- refilled the coolant
- removed the engine driven fan and front mounted aux fan, brushed out the radiator
- scavenged an electric fan out of the one manual junkyard e46 left in Charlotte
- tested the fan with a/c on and off to ensure it was getting the call to turn on and responding
Very happy with the results. The engine is smoother and quieter than it was when it left the factory. Only pics I took after sorting out the carnage was pulling the aux fan. Look at all the room for activities/airflow!