2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Heater Core Replacement

[biggy238]

I just finished leg One of my heater core replacement.



3 hours and 10 minutes to have the old one out and the new one in and sitting in place, ready for everything to be bolted back up.



I also replaced my top driver side door hinge because one of the bolts comes in from the interior out throught the hinge so it was conveinient (if that could be applied to this job) to go ahead and swap it.





For anyone who plans on doing this job, have a whole day set aside for it. I know it could be done faster, but man that would be humpin' it.

 

[kentdiesel]

Hello,

Sounds like you made pretty good time changing it out.



Where did you buy your heater core? I went to the Dealership and they wanted $242. 00 and I could see on the computer their cost was $121. 00

I asked for a garage discount and they said no.

I wasn't that impressed with how long the factory ones last anyway.

So I went to AutoZone and paid $79. 99 and got a much better warranty.

It has been in 8 months with no trouble so far.



I made a orfice in the lathe, . 630 OD , . 453 ID and put it in the hose that feeds the heater core. I suspect the Cummins water pump provides more pressure at high rpm than the heater core can stand and metal fatigue shortens its life. Just my theory.



Kent

 

[biggy238]

I bought mine from NAPA some months ago and have had it in my tool box in the truck to remind me. I think I paid within $10 of what you did. My biggest kick was that the lines ran toward the bottom of the core when I took it out of the box. I cursed and was headed to get another when I gave the core a spin in my hand by one of the lines, and the line turned itself into correct position.





I would say that your theory is correct. I also don't think that such components were ever intended to last 200K, which the engine will happily do.



My original core was leaking at (the soldering) the top end tank down over the core itself and making a huge mess. My floorboard needs attention now.



Just another day with the Old Goat.

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

I have a new OEM heater core that I bought for my 97 and never used. Anyone interested?

 

[GAmes]

I have a new OEM heater core that I bought for my 97 and never used. Anyone interested?

Yes, from an old customer.