Topic: Heater Core Removal

[ChrisV289]

Does anyone have a suggestion on how to remove a heater core with a car that has the under dash AC?  I seem to be having an issue with it not coming out...Seems to get stuck and there isn't enough clearance to remove it or I am doing it wrong...Also does anyone have an idea on how to remove the heater hose connection on the intake manifold...Doesn't want to loosen up at all...A 3/4 wrench is too big and a 5/8 is too small....


Thanks

[jwc66k]

Try a 11/16 inch wrench on the manifold fitting, as to the rest, bite the bullet. If your concern is not undoing the A/C plumbing, you may consider disconecting the A/C pump from it's engine brackets and shove the hoses inside the car which would allow the A/C blower to be moved to the rear a bit with the additional hose length. That may give you enough clearance to get the heater out. Sounds messy but -
Jim

[ChrisV289]

Heater core is removed finally after removing the console and then able to move the ac forward.  Still can't get the heater hose elbow  connection off the manifold....I feel it might snap off if I put more pressure on it...Anyone have suggestions on that?  Also what is the best way to remove the old foam from the heater core parts with out using a sandblaster?  Any special chemical that is easily available?

Thanks

[jwc66k]

Heater core is removed finally after removing the console and then able to move the ac forward.  Still can't get the heater hose elbow  connection off the manifold....I feel it might snap off if I put more pressure on it...Anyone have suggestions on that?  Also what is the best way to remove the old foam from the heater core parts with out using a sandblaster?  Any special chemical that is easily available?

Thanks

That elbow scares me too. I wire brushed the area where the fitting meets the manifold, sprayed Liquid Wrench into the joint and waited a week, adding more Liquid Wrench to keep it moist. It worked. I was prepared to re-tap the hole just in case.
A scraper, some elbow grease, a wire brush and some Jasco paint remover (on the left over glue) cleaned the foam. Most of the foam has turned to dust so it wasn't too bad. In my case though, I beadblasted all the metal parts then painted them semigloss black. Mask and use 3M spray adhesive to attach new foam.  I used Krylon Matte Finish, 1311, to bring the case back to reasonable looking.
Jim