2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Heater core and a/c evap.

[SHobbs]

Got a question for those that might know. Chrysler is picking up the tab for the labor to replace my shattered dash top. The dash top is $426 out of my pocket. While they are in there I figured I might as well have them change out the core and evap. I was told by the dealership it would cost me an additional $600 for this. About $150 of that is for dealing with the a/c so $450 is what they will charge to change the core and evap.



Looks like about 4-5 hours of labor to pull the hvac box and do the swap. With the dash already pulled back is this correct? Looking at 2 days to do the work. Anyone have any experience with this?

 

[BDaugherty]

Unless you are having heater core or evaporator leaks, I don't understand why you would mess with either one. Replacement is labor intensive, but I don't trust a brand new one any more than I do the one that's been in there for 9 years. Seems to me the only thing you gain is the warranty on the new parts. Also, the labor hours sounds about right. I'm guessing that a seasoned dealer mechanic would be able to do the job in one long day, but I bet it pays around 16 hours for the whole job.

 

[GAmes]

Since my dashtop only cost about $175 including paint (can't get colored ones for the older models anymore) I can see why they will give it to you "free" for that labor cost. I think your year model is less work than a 97, don't know that as a fact however. You can look thru this post from a couple years ago.

https://www.turbodieselregister.com...n-discussions/182820-2nd-gen-dash-cracks.html



a picture of mine with the cover removed is post #85.



I agree that if your heater and A/C are good not to mess with them.

 

[Missouri Mule]

I have read they are around $300 to $400 for most years.

 

[SHobbs]

With my luck and Murphys law being in bed together changing them both out will be a plus. I talked to three other dealers and they all quoted me $350 for the core and evap swap which includes the freon charges and in one day. Not sure why there is a difference between them but cutting the cost nearly in half and only one day down sounds better.

 

[JDKammin]

When I did one in my 94 truck, it took me 8 hours. I am sure I could knock off some time after doing one. I think the Mopar heater core was $175. If you figure shop rate at $80/hr. you will have $650 in labor plus the price of the heater core.

 

[Wooter]

Having my A/C evap core replaced today - $135 for part at Autozone, $625 for labor to change it out. While they got it apart, told them to put in new heater core also.

Truck - 98 model, ac has leaked for 4 yrs - I could always have it charged and it would last for a season but not now - charge is gone 2 days after recharge. Dont know what heater core will be, but was told around $100 - Will know this afternoon what the total will be.



FYI

 

[Wooter]

Update - Heater core is $250 - and 1 hr labor more - Was advised that there are cheaper cores, but this one is brass. They have had problems (leaks) with the cheaper ones so I opted for the additional - Job is now $1000 + and that includes a/c dryer also that I had not included before. I WOULD HAVE DONE THE JOB IF I HAD HELLP BUT THIS WAS A DIY JOB AND I NEEDED IT DONE ASAP.

FYI

+

 

[The patriot]

I did my heater core while I was doing the evaporator, just because "I was in there anyway".

I got an AC delco from Rock auto and it leaked within 6 months. #@$%!

If given the chance again, I'd leave well enough alone.

JM. 02