The dreaded Heater Core
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,188
Likes: 266
From: Huntington Beach CA
The dreaded Heater Core
The heater core went out in my '90 and I'm going to attempt to replace it next week. Ok, so I've read about every heater core topic in C4 General, but a lot of the posts are inconsistent. I realize it will be a big job, and I'm willing to tackle it, therefore I'd like to try the easiest method.
It looks like there are two methods here that most people try.
1. Jet-Jock Method - I received the .pdf from Jet-Jock (thank you, btw) and was going to try his method. Basically, it involves removing the dash pad and most of the passenger side dash components. Based on 1993 model.
2. FastGuy Method - by removing the passenger seat and accessing the core under the dash, leaving the dash pad in place. Based on 1989 model.
So, my question is, will the FastGuy method work for the new interiors (I have a 1990 Coupe)? If so, who has done it this way? If not, it looks like I'll be disassembling my car next week.
It looks like there are two methods here that most people try.
1. Jet-Jock Method - I received the .pdf from Jet-Jock (thank you, btw) and was going to try his method. Basically, it involves removing the dash pad and most of the passenger side dash components. Based on 1993 model.
2. FastGuy Method - by removing the passenger seat and accessing the core under the dash, leaving the dash pad in place. Based on 1989 model.
So, my question is, will the FastGuy method work for the new interiors (I have a 1990 Coupe)? If so, who has done it this way? If not, it looks like I'll be disassembling my car next week.
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 19,149
Likes: 2
From: First to Sign Grumpy's Hat Only 53 miles from Hell
St. Jude Donor '06-'09-'10-'11
Originally Posted by eptaylor
Yes, we both need an answer. In a few weeks I need to replace mine too in a 90 convertible. Need the FASTEST, EASIEST, NO-BRAINER, etc. way to do this.
Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,188
Likes: 266
From: Huntington Beach CA
Originally Posted by redwing76
I've only done one and it was easy.
Took the car to the radiator shop waited for 4 hours and took the car home.
Took the car to the radiator shop waited for 4 hours and took the car home.
You left the part out about getting out your wallet. How much did that run you?
5th Gear
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
From: Cary NC
Originally Posted by redwing76
I've only done one and it was easy.
Took the car to the radiator shop waited for 4 hours and took the car home.
Took the car to the radiator shop waited for 4 hours and took the car home.
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Thread Starter
Burning Brakes
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 1,188
Likes: 266
From: Huntington Beach CA
Originally Posted by Scoob
Good luck bro.
Pro
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 549
Likes: 20
From: Jamestown TN
Originally Posted by REDEVIL
Looks like I'll need it. I've been putting it off for a long time, since I live in southern california, I really don't use my heater. But, now I'm going to work in Seattle for 6 months, and I think the heater may come in handy up there.
Here's the pages from a Haynes manual that I used. I pulled the dashpad, it's not that difficult to pull off. These instructions are vague but you can eventually get the core replaced. It took me about 4-5 hours by myself.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 3,270
Likes: 29
From: Chilliwack B.C.
Wow... I was going to do mine when I first bought the car but the boys at the shop were doing the Provincial Report (out of country test) and recommended that they do it. I'm glad they did...
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 22,209
Likes: 12
From: OBAMA IS HITLER
GM Part #001 isn't necessarily the thing to replace if you've got any anger issues.
3 years ago on my previous '90, I had my local shop take care of it. I'm not intersted in blowing up and throwing tools everywhere, plus I'm a bit big to fool around in small areas sometimes. Cost was $250, including the heater core. I would spend $250 anytime to avoid the frustration involved. Keeping one's mental health is alot more important than mere $$ saved.
3 years ago on my previous '90, I had my local shop take care of it. I'm not intersted in blowing up and throwing tools everywhere, plus I'm a bit big to fool around in small areas sometimes. Cost was $250, including the heater core. I would spend $250 anytime to avoid the frustration involved. Keeping one's mental health is alot more important than mere $$ saved.
CF JASOC Member
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 8,040
Likes: 34
From: Downtown Annapolis, MD. The Future is where we all have to live. Let's not screw it up.
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11
Originally Posted by Hogan
I don't think the words fastest and easiest should be used in the same sentence when referring to changing out a heater core in a Vette.
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 208
Likes: 1
From: Santa Rosa CA
I used the fast guy method in my 89. A lot it is done by the feel and is awkward, but it still seems easier than taking the dash apart. I needed a flexible extension on ¼ drive sockets to get the top bolts off the cover. I did not bother to take the seat out. Take many beer breaks and spread it out over a few sessions. Lots of little plastic things to break if you are not slow and careful. If someone would do it for $250, I would pay that.
