Topic: removing 1966 (289)heater core preparation

[socalgt]

I'd like to remove my heater core and was wondering what prep I can do to minimize the amount of H20 that will come out...(thought there might be something I can do that would minimize the amount in the core and/or the hoses.)

[carlite65]

i have used an air hose & about 8-10 psi to blow it dry before removal. can be done from engine compartment side & blown into a catch bottle.

[CharlesTurner]

+1 to Fred's suggestion.  Drain the coolant at the radiator first, then remove the 2 hoses.  If you want to completely evacuate the engine, then remove the hex plugs on the each side of the block.

[socalgt]

My only purpose is to replace the  reproduction defroster plenum with the original one and install original style hose clamps at the heater core.  I'm just trying to cause as little mess as possible...

                                                                                         Thanks

[socalgt]

I assume these are the correct style clamps for the hoses at the heater core?

[ChrisV289]

No, they should be the tower clamps.  Those are for mopar heater hoses or the hose from the air cleaner to the oiler filler cap on California cars or the hose from the carb base to the PCV

[socalgt]

Thanks.....I didn't realize the tower clamps were used on the hoses at the heater core itself, in addition to the connections in the engine compartment.  (Hard to find of picture of that area)

[Hipo giddyup]

Here are a few pics of an original heater core set up that I have recently sourced. Was even lucky enough to have acquired the used cardboard plenum with it (in good shape). Unfortunately I am not sure of the VIN or assembly plant for this Mustang as perhaps installation could have varied with how the tower clamps were positioned? It also had the original FoMoCo heater in it with a date of 11/65'. I since have reused the heater core with no issues so far. Fingers crossed..

[carlite65]

pics??? don't see them.....?

[Hipo giddyup]

Having problems uploading....

[Hipo giddyup]

 Try this from my phone

[Hipo giddyup]

 Let's see if  this one works as well. I stand corrected, heater core was dated October 1965

[markb0729]

You should remove the entire heater box to service the heater core.  Here's what worked for me.  Not a drop spilled.  Completely drain radiator.  Remove top heater hose from intake manifold.  Plug end of heater hose.  Plug should be no larger than diameter of heater hose.  I used a 3" piece of scrap 1/2" copper pipe with an end cap soldered on.  Remove other heater hose from water pump and plug.  Remove glove box.  In the engine compartment, unplug blower motor.   Next, Remove 4 screws from around blower motor and ground wire on the firewall.  Remove screw from bracket that secures heater box to cowl.  Heater box can now be manuvered out while feeding heater hose through the firewall.  Drain after removing.  I highly recommend you remove the passenger seat.  You'll regret it if you don't.

[jwc66k]

You should remove the entire heater box to service the heater core. 

Yes. I tried to remove the exposed interior half of the heater on my 66 back in 1967 without removing the entire unit and it didn't work well back then.

I highly recommend you remove the passenger seat.  You'll regret it if you don't.

Your back will thank you.

Remove glove box. 

I've never thought this was necessary. If you do take out the glove box, it is a lot easier to remove and install the two control cable retainer nuts (351699-S, available AMK) on top of the heater box. If you have a console, remove that.
I do recommend you getting a new heater hose. "Loop" it thru the holes in the firewall without cutting it to fit (yet) then attach it to the heater core fittings with the correct clamps. Install the heater box to the firewall. Lay the looped hose in position placing the portion from the lower heater core fitting to the choke hose bracket on the carburetor (ex HP engines) then to the manifold fitting for a length sanity check. The sanity part is - are you going to have enough hose from the top fitting to reach the fitting on the water pump? If yes, cut to length (I cut it three times and it was still too short). If possible, start the engine and check for leaks in your installation. If none, reassemble the interior.
Jim

[J_Speegle]

Try this from my phone

Might want to save that hose if its not cut or damaged   and the details check out