Lost the heater core

[billschroeder5842]

For those who have unfortunately been bitten....

It is necessary adn worth the effort to pull the dash? There is certanly extra effort but did it make the install THAT much easier?

I worry about extra creaks, pops and groans from the dash. I hate the noise.

[Dynomite]

Originally Posted by billschroeder5842

It is necessary and worth the effort to pull the dash? There is certanly extra effort but did it make the install THAT much easier?

See Post #5 and Post #10

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Originally Posted by Dynomite

Is your Heater Core leaking? Other than an additional engine cooling source I have no clue as someone else can comment on that aspect of the Heater System effecting something else. I would definitely repair the Heater Core.....remove the passenger seat if you want (I did not).

I would do it the way I did.......from the bottom and when replacing Heater Core Modify the heater Core Box Rivets using Nylon Push Pins

I then slip the Heater Core Outer Housing up into place and install two Nylon Push Rivets replacing the two removed rivets connecting the Dual Top Conduit to the Heater Core Housing. The two Nylon Push Rivets are shown before final installation. The installation of the Nylon Push Rivets is very easy as there is room to place and push the Rivets after installation of the Heater Core Housing.



Replacing the Heater Core and Heater Hose Connection

Cliff,
I believe it is leaking, but have not pulled the carpet back to confirm. Every time I drive it you can smell coolant in the cabin, but it is a very slow leak if so checking the level. I'm being lazy in thought to think of just bypassing, but will probably end of doing the job because I feel like that is half-assing the issue regardless if I feel I really need the heater or not. I think it was Hib that mentioned when I brought it up some time back. Thanks for your tips and tricks as always and it is encouraging. Damn if my while you're in there list is not growing longer and longer now that I finally have a garage and brought the car home. Thanks again!!!

[billschroeder5842]

Originally Posted by Dynomite

See Post #5 and Post #10

Thanks, but it leaves me conflicted... I'd guess i'd leave the dash on and give it a shot. Fortunately, mine is not leaking. I 'm just scheming against the inevitable.

BTW... back in the day I did a heater core on a 69 Dodge Charger with air (a rarity) and it took 3.5 hours. I miss all the extra room!

[Dynomite]

Originally Posted by billschroeder5842

Thanks, but it leaves me conflicted... I'd guess i'd leave the dash on and give it a shot. Fortunately, mine is not leaking. I 'm just scheming against the inevitable.

BTW... back in the day I did a heater core on a 69 Dodge Charger with air (a rarity) and it took 3.5 hours. I miss all the extra room!

It is NOT inevitable

This is one Maintenance Item you leave until it happens.
It will start out slow like Craig suggests so you have plenty time after the first little smell of coolant.
Again.....it is NOT inevitable

[WARP TEN]

I was at Marc Haibeck's shop a while back and son Bob had the dash apart on a Z to replace a heater core. He described it and "not a big deal--takes a few hours". But he does this quite regularly. He or Marc might be a good source of tips when attacking this, or if your car needs a few other things done you might consider sending or bringing it to him. --Bob