heater core replacement info
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Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2003
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From: wilton ct.
heater core replacement info
did a search of heater core replacement, but didnt find enough info. my '79/ac vette seems to be leaking from the heater core. does anybody know of a detailed set of instructions to remove and replace it ? from what i already know, it 's a real pain in the tail and knuckle scraper. i want to do it right the first time.and since the original core lasted 27 yrs., i figure i wont be around the next time it need replacing..
thx in advance,
jim...
thx in advance, jim...
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From: Tuttle OK
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Last edited by Avette4me; Aug 22, 2006 at 05:49 PM.
Melting Slicks
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From: New Cumberland PA
The heater core is not normally changed in many cars. The car is more than likely going to be sitting in the junk yard or waiting in line to be crushed before it needs to be changed. Since the corvette is not in that catagory, it does need to be changed after 30 years or so. The job is probably easier in a C3 than it would be in a most newer cars but that does not mean it's a 1 hour job. The right side dash and duct work have to come apart. I even had to remove the duct work from the center and drivers side (76). You just keep taking things off until the heater core box will come out.
You'll want to have all the parts on hand before putting it back together. I assume you have the heater core. If the heater hoses are old, replace them. The duct work also has seals, kind of like foam with an adhesive backing. If I knew about those seals I would have got new ones when I did my heater core replacement (nobody ever mentioned it). Probably don't cost much, but they should be changed to ensure another 30 years of service without the duct work leaking.
Most of the work is done on the inside. I believe there is one nut to be removed from the engine bay as well as the heater hose clamps. I would figure on spending 4 to 8 hours to do this. The first time always takes much longer.
You'll want to have all the parts on hand before putting it back together. I assume you have the heater core. If the heater hoses are old, replace them. The duct work also has seals, kind of like foam with an adhesive backing. If I knew about those seals I would have got new ones when I did my heater core replacement (nobody ever mentioned it). Probably don't cost much, but they should be changed to ensure another 30 years of service without the duct work leaking.
Most of the work is done on the inside. I believe there is one nut to be removed from the engine bay as well as the heater hose clamps. I would figure on spending 4 to 8 hours to do this. The first time always takes much longer.
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Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 2,166
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From: wilton ct.
thx everyone, the wealth of information from fellow vette owners is great,and is very much appreciated... i owe you all a beer.....now i got to get to work on the heater core......stay tuned for further updates.... jim...
jim...
