99SH

My headgasket blew a couple weeks ago, pressuring the coolant system (note oil did not mix). Just received the head today from the machine shop and buttoned everything up. To my surprise coolant is leaking at the passenger side footwell where the heater core is. It is also coming out from the drip tube under the car.

Anyone have a similar experience? I'm hoping its a torn hose or leaking clamp.

Fokker

If it's leaking on the inside, I would assume that the core itself has failed.

99SH

Yes, it is leaking from the inside. I've bypassed the heater core now (from under the hood).

joes sled 2000

That is surprising . I guess with enough pressure it could happen . Changing the core is going to suck . Good luck .

Fokker

It sucks, but it's not impossible. The HVAC unit separates into two pieces to make it relatively easy to pull out. I'd have to verify with the service manual, but I think it shouldn't be too much trouble to pull it out while leaving the dash in place.

Topplayer

I removed the HVAC twice over the past 2 weekend to swap wiring from one car to another, and I can tell you its totally doable its just a real pain in the ass.

99SH

Went thru the manual yesterday and it requires removing the dash and discharging the AC system (which didnt cross my mind).

Topplayer, since you've done this before do you see a way around removing the dash?

joes sled 2000

The dash has to come out . Sorry .

99SH

I just wanted to say removing the dash is such a PITA. It almost made me cry and wanted to sell the car

New heater core is installed. I don't seem to be getting HOT air only warm. Bled the system a few times now over the last 2 days. I'll keep trying. I did verify the heater valve/door/flapper is opening all the way. Car operates at nominal temp.

I'm suspecting the thermostat may be flaky as it was previously opening later than it should've. This was when I bypassed the heater core, so I'm not sure if it was related to the bypass or the thermostat itself. Thermostat is also new, bought from dealer <1000 miles ago.

Fokker

Did you bleed the pipe running along the back of the dash (in the engine bay)? Runs behind the back of the head cover, bleed nipple is on the driver side as I recall.