Heater core gone bad ...??

JOHNP

Founding Member
May 24, 2002
209
0
0
Raleigh, NC
Recently I can really smell anitfreeze when my heater is on. I figure it is the heater core that needs to be replaced. I have been told that this is a long repair. I have pretty good mechanical knowledge, but I never have done this. Is it something that is better left to a mechanic or should I tear out my dash and try myself? Any ideas on how much it would cost to have it done? tHANKS ... JP
 
JOHNP said:
Recently I can really smell anitfreeze when my heater is on. I figure it is the heater core that needs to be replaced. I have been told that this is a long repair. I have pretty good mechanical knowledge, but I never have done this. Is it something that is better left to a mechanic or should I tear out my dash and try myself? Any ideas on how much it would cost to have it done? tHANKS ... JP

Yeah, sounds like the heater core.
I replaced it on my T-Bird and it was a pain in the ass.
I had to rip out the dash to do it.
I'm not sure how much it would be to have it installed but I'm sure it isn't cheap due to the amount of labor.
Stupid Ford had to put it behind the dash. :notnice:
Just take your time and do it yourself.
It's not hard.
It just takes time and patience.
Careful to not crack the dash!
 
Most likely your heater core. When mine died my windshield was covered in a film of antifreeze. It's been about 4 months and it still smells.

It's an indepth job, you could probably do it yourself, just give yourself a while to do it.

If I remember correctly I was quoted 700-1300 to have someone do this at a shop. Thank God for mechanically gifted friends!
 
Yup, same problem with the antifreeze on the windshield. Wouldn't you know it, I never had a problem with it for the last 4 years .... I just made the last payment on it 2 weeks ago and then something happens. Oh well, I don't think I want to spend 700 to have it fixed by someone else, I guess I am going to have to bite the bullet and take a day off to do it myself. AArrgg.