Removing Heater Core?

[samwise68]

Hey all,

Winter's around the corner and my heater core is leaky. I have a replacement one out of one of my other trucks, but I ran into a hitch this afternoon - how do I get the heater core/fan assembly out?

I mean, yes. Take the bolts out, etc. But, there are some clearance issues with the inner fender and the bottom bolts.

Please don't tell me I need to take my inner fender out, just to remove it...

Anyone have any tips or tricks? I'd really appreciate it.

Thanks in advance.

-Sam.

[kwmech]

Take your inner fender out

[JimKshortstep4x4]

Do you have AC or not as the AC heater core is a lot easier to replace compared to the standard heater.

Jim

[Dingfodgy]

As "kwmech" said....remove the inner fender.

[cdowns]

it's a great weekend project// take out inner fender clean t up spruce it up with a can of paint clean up the exposed framerail and the side of the engine block change the heater core then button it all back up/ heck you could also take off the hood hinge clean lubricate and paint it too

[Chevyntytwo]

While your at it think about a replacement blower motor. Inexpensive and worry free for years to come.

[Sammy]

You can remove the bolts on the inner and slide it around without removing if you like. Also I think I removed the R/H hinge and used a 2X4 to hold the hood to get to that 1 bolt.

[Smallz72project]

I just had to do this myself on my truck. I robbed the assembly off my 72 for my 67. I did not remove the inner fender although you will need to unbolt the hood hinge so you can swing it out of the way enough to clear it all. The only one that you cant reach isnt actually a bolt, its just a thin sheet metal style nut thats pressed, if your not super worried about it you can unbolt all the other ones you can and then just wiggle it gently until that nut pops off, now you wont be able to reinstall that nut with out taking the inner fender out. The correct way would be inner fender removed, but if you are in a hurry and just need it done and plan on going back in at some point...its an option...I only used this method for removal...installation onto my 67 is with the inner fender removed. Also once you get it off...dont get too anxious and pull too hard.....the flapper door is attached just on the other side and will prevent you from removing it completely...just need to swing it out enough that you can see it and get on the keeper with a pair of needle nose pliers. Good luck!

[samwise68]

Alrighty then, at least I was totally missing an obvious alternative solution.

Thanks guys, I'll look into it this weekend. For now, I just bypassed the heater core, so I won't be getting fumigated with antifreeze, haha. Good thing I don't mind driving without heat for a few days, should I have to.

Thanks again!

-Sam.

[VetteVet]

This from the FAQS
http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ad.php?t=69812

[WyoGMC]

I just replaced my heater motor recently. On the subject of not getting too excited to pull off the heater box because of the flapper wire. You can pull the rubber grommet from inside the cab and pull off the cable before you try to pull off the heater box.

I wanted to to put in a new heater core while I was working in the area. But the checkbook wouldn't let me. It is a real good idea to change out the heater motor while you have it apart. Nothing worse than having to do the same work twice when you could have taken care of it the first time. Plus get new gaskets too.

[sameyrasmea72]

Originally Posted by samwise68

....... I have a replacement one out of one of my other trucks, .......
-Sam.

This is not a difficult job to do, but it is not simple either. I would try to get a brand new core if possible, or you might have to do the change all over again in a couple years. a new one should last the life of the truck nearly. I don't think they cost much at a parts store. If not a new one, take the one you plan to put in there to a radiator shop and they can pressure test it for you.

[Longhorn Man]

if the blower motor is not making noise, i would leave it alone. With the total lack of quality in parts store electronic stuff these days, your old motor will more likely than not live longer than the replacement junk. Plus, it is super easy to swap in a new motor in compared to a heater core.
If the funds are there, i would consider a new core over a used one off a parts truck.

[Sport/Truck]

I'd suggest installing a new blower seal while your at it.
s/t

[lok-dawg]

About to tackle this exact same install. . . Will definitely be buying a brand new core though.