5FSE overheating problem, Blown head gasket? Options

[jackkasper]

My 96 Vert overheated and the radiator split on top due to pressure I'm guessing. Replaced the radiator and thermostat and still experiencing the overheat symptom.
Took it to my mechanic who told me it needed a new head gasket. I am skeptical due to the lack of appearance of water in the oil (clear not milky) or oil in the coolant.

I suspect the water pump but am uncertain how to check it for failure. Suggestions?

[ST204GT83]

Are you losing coolant? Steam from exhaust? Are you capable of doing the work yourself? If so, take the water pump off and check it, the fan, or fins, propeller, what ever you'd like to call them, are probably shot. But, you'd be messing with the timing belt, and that can be an absolute nightmare if you don't get it on properly. You'd also need a timing light.