2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Heater core quality.

[Kf6cmp]

I have taken the heater core out with great help from the issue 59. Now that i have the heater core out ive come to the sad realization that the heater core selection sucks. I went to napa who im usally happy with bought the core looked at it with shock. Its all aluminum and the pipes swivel around, it looks like it might last a few years(Nooooooooooo!). I then when to my dodge dealer and wow he wants 200 more then that napa core. Humm. What to do. Is the oem that much better? If so fine i'll choke down the price and buy it.

Any one have an answer or is this issue just that simple. I have pics of the tare down to the core if anyone needs info. My truck is a 99 and is straight forward. but a lot of time and yoga involved.

 

[JDKammin]

I ran into the same problem, when replacing the heater core in my 94, several years back. I went back with an OEM replacement. I did not want to spend the extra money, but if I figured what my time was worth if the aftermarket heater core started leaking.

 

[Kf6cmp]

Thats pretty much my line of thinking. how do i get that part cheaper is my quest.

 

[DCreed]

just have to find out who makes it for them.

 

[Kf6cmp]

aint that the truth. Ive been looking at oem dodge mopar sites and there are a few out there that beat the price here in San Diego dodge dealerships. But the wait oh no!

 

[WestTN]

Aluminum the the best of the common metals at conducting heat. Using the correct antifreeze and monitoring its condition is necessary to preserve it. Mine is trouble-free at 145,000 miles.

 

[BDaugherty]

One way to get a part cheaper from the dealer is to find a local mechanic who has a corporate account set up with that dealer. Have them buy the part for you and then compensate them for their time. $20 to save $100 is worth the effort.

 

[The patriot]

I have a commercial acct. It's usually about 20%.

 

[Kf6cmp]

i replaced the heater core with the Napa one. Also replaced the evaporator also. I hope the core is good enough. I drove to northern Oregon on a trip. the air con works good but the heater is not working so i have to figure out what went wrong. any suggestions. Thanks.

 

[DCreed]

may have lost a vacuum connection so the mixing door is not working, or the coolant level is too low.