81 with AC, Heater Core Replacement
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 560
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From: Camino CA
81 with AC, Heater Core Replacement
I need to replace my heater core, I have to take the dash apart and undo the hoses from underneath right? How much of the dash do I have to take out, the whole thing or just the center guages and the glove box? This is my only car so, is this something that can be done in a weekend? If not will it be driveable if I don't get it all done?
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 2,310
Likes: 1
Re: 81 with AC, Heater Core Replacement (Ben Taylor)
This job can be done in a weekend, probably even a long day, if you're prepared.
You have to remove the passenger & center dash section (and I think at least loosen some of the center console). I also removed my passenger seat. Mostly to get my coolant soaked carpet out for cleaning, but it does make maneuvering around that area easier also.
Have your core in hand. Most people like to get it tested too. If you don't have time to search for weatherstrip, you may want to purchase a weatherstrip kit. Also, you can bypass the heater core from the engine compartment side (with a small metal tube) until you feel you are ready for the job.
Some here have some links to very good detailed instructions, so TTT.
Good Luck (it's not a hard job, but it's NO fun either).
You have to remove the passenger & center dash section (and I think at least loosen some of the center console). I also removed my passenger seat. Mostly to get my coolant soaked carpet out for cleaning, but it does make maneuvering around that area easier also.
Have your core in hand. Most people like to get it tested too. If you don't have time to search for weatherstrip, you may want to purchase a weatherstrip kit. Also, you can bypass the heater core from the engine compartment side (with a small metal tube) until you feel you are ready for the job.
Some here have some links to very good detailed instructions, so TTT.
Good Luck (it's not a hard job, but it's NO fun either).
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 30,995
Likes: 99
From: Ontario
Re: 81 with AC, Heater Core Replacement (Ben Taylor)
Go to this site. Choose "miscellaneous" and go to "heater core 1970 with A/C." http://www.corvettefaq.com/
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 43,136
Likes: 155
From: Thomson Georgia
Re: 81 with AC, Heater Core Replacement (paul79)
Good Luck It is a very time consuming job...I would have someone to help as well....It took me ...with the help of a mechanic....about 6 hours to change my 74 w/AC
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2000
Posts: 2,268
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From: Roanoke Virginia
Re: 81 with AC, Heater Core Replacement (Alwyn678)
Be sure to check you new core for leaks out of the box. Additionally, if you so much as sneeze while putting the new core in the metal housing, it will leak around the pipe to core solder joint. Luckily, this housing is metal, so....bend the pipes to fit and secure the core with the metal retainers, then get out the welding torch and solder, and solder that bad-boy :smash: :yesnod: You don't want to go through the effort of replacing to find you new core leaks :nonod:
