2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Changed heater core.. smelling coolant(ish) smell, but no leaks..

[C. Harlan]

bought a heater core and dash top replacement from the dealer, and got everything back together... now I keep smelling something really strong like coolant, only nothing is leaking... are they coated with something that will eventually stop, or do I need to pull everything apart again?

 

[GAmes]

I don't think so Chris. I would double check the clamps on the heater hoses.

 

[firefighter_2000]

Left over

If your old heater core was leaking and there was some left in the bottom of the "pan" that the heater core sits in, it will heat up and still cause the smell. I had this on mine. I was in a hurry when I did the job and closed it up without remembering to get the excess coolant out of the bottome. I ended up drilling a couple of small holes in the bottom, flushing with a syringe of water and catching it on the other hole. Kept a towel down there for a few days. No more coolant smell tho.

Craig

 

[JMcCoy]

Try setting the A/C on vent and spraying some Lysol in the exterior intake vents, where the windshield meets the hood. I do this every now and then just to sanitize the vents. It would help a little when I had a leaking heater core. Good luck