Heater-Core

[TheGuyWho]

Anyone here replaced their heater-core?? Mine just started leaking and it freakin stinks, so ive gotta change this thing out ASAP! Anyone who's done it: What did you need? How did you do it? Was pulling the dash as big of a PITA as its rumored to be?
Thanks.

 

[TheGuyWho]

So I got everything done yesterday… MAN! What a long process!! Its not a super difficult job, it just takes a long time to do properly.
Do yourself a favor, and replace anything and everything that could go wrong inside your dash! You DO NOT want to have to do this job more than once! I replaced my blend door, and my blend door actuator while I was in there, since those are common problems also.

 

[jscribn1]

I'm getting ready to take on this job myself and would appreciate any tips you could give. I saw another post you commented on about a special tool for the hoses. Did you find you needed that tool? I figure I've got more time than money. I just did this on my Jeep Grand Cherokee so I have a little knowledge of the job. I figure I've got more time than money and hate to pay $800 for something where the part is $60. Thanks for any help you could give.

 

[jscribn1]

Another question, did you need to evacuate the AC system? I had to on my Jeep is why I ask.

 

[stamp11127]

I have the tool to remove the hoses, worked on all the cars but one. The hoses would not release. Since your replacing the core anyway you can break the line off it then remove the pipe when it is easier to get to. Wiggle the line side to side and it will snap off after a few times. Make sure your holding the connector in your hand to avoid breaking it when your doing this.

Leave the a/c as is, no need to touch the system.

 

[jscribn1]

Are you saying to break the lines that come off the core through the firewall? What connector do I hold in my hand? Thanks for the tips.

 

[stamp11127]

Hold onto the black hose end connector where it locks onto the heater core pipe.

 

[jscribn1]

I was told by my mechanic that the AC system needs to be evacuated prior to doing the heater core. He said the HVAC sub assembly needs to be removed and that includes the AC evap cooler. I just want to do this right the first time. Thanks.

 

[98EXeb]

I by-passed mine.....hopefully the winter here in FL isnt that bad....lol

 

[stamp11127]

See for your self...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gt6jJwyjACw

He has 2 other videos on the procedure that completes the series.

 

[jscribn1]

Thanks for this video, it's the best one I've seen!!