5 Minute heater core replace???

Topic: 5 Minute heater core replace??? (Read 4835 times) previous topic - next topic

5 Minute heater core replace???

August 08, 2012, 11:41:27 PM

Well i can replace it in 5 minutes. The midnighter had a hacked up fire wall. So i fit this piece to cover it up and with one fender washer with a captive nut removed along with disconnecting the heater hoses. Presto 5 minutes and it is dun. The engines head blocks out the seam on the drivers side and the AC components blocks the left. So issue scab in the part and weld it ??? Or leave it as an access cover and a 5 MIN core replacement access. I want to leave it after i fit it better. But JR wants to weld it in and do the body work on the fire wall. Any feed back gentleman!!!

:hick:

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #1 – August 09, 2012, 12:22:05 AM

I say once the panel is "fitted", add a rubber gasket, a few very short, effectively placed sheet metal screws, and call it a day.

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #2 – August 09, 2012, 04:49:22 AM

I agree with vinnie,especially if the firewall is painted.

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #3 – August 09, 2012, 06:03:59 AM

That is my thoughts!!

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #4 – August 09, 2012, 07:15:34 AM

I'd weld it. The reason I sat that is because it's usefulness is limited. Once there's an engine in there what will be the point? With an engine in, this "cover" will be useless and if it's useless it might as well be welded up so that any structural value the firewall may have is restored. Just my personal opinion.

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #5 – August 09, 2012, 08:28:50 AM

I would leave the patch panel removable. I think it would look just fine. I prefer "easy" access.

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #6 – August 09, 2012, 09:42:12 AM

Not so easy with an engine installed. Step 1, remove engine, Step 2 remove panel, Step 3 swap core. Real easy. I bet the job would pay 1.5, tops.
:shoothead:rolleyes:

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #7 – August 09, 2012, 11:13:28 AM

I would thing that not welding it back in would make the fire wall too weak.

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #8 – August 09, 2012, 01:36:27 PM

If you didn't weld it back up, I would think you'd almost certainly have to install a triangulated strut tower brace.

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #9 – August 09, 2012, 05:20:54 PM

Interesting comments!!! The actual hole is not that big. I have seen many a firewall hacked like this in birds and mustangs!!! The ease of removal with the engine in is no issue. I have tried it before i took the engine out!! But changing a core is a pain even though i dont find it that bad of a job without the firewall cut!! Well have to discuss it with JR he wants it welded in place and body work dun to the under hood area. Well thanks for the input. I thought it was a neat idea!!! Their was a chrome plate their before i cut the piece out of a car in the JY. This in my opinion is a very good way to repair a cut firewall and have it look somewhat decent. I will keep you posted. Thank You all!!

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #10 – August 09, 2012, 08:07:10 PM

I'd leave the panel... and pretty it up

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #11 – August 10, 2012, 12:01:58 AM

Quote from: daminc;395670

I'd leave the panel... and pretty it up

Im still down with that vote.

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #12 – August 15, 2012, 09:39:52 PM

"crystal" once upon a time said here on the board that she removed the glove box and undid some various hvac vac lines and then............

with a dremal tool and small cutting disc cut three sides of a tall rectangle out of the air box directly behind the heater core which then was a simple door she bent open and extracted the heater core.

stuck the new one in and then closed the door and closed the box with duct tape.

still have not see pics of this but i also have not forgot it,,,, my 20th just blew its core and i will soon "need" to attempt the same process.

she said she did it and i believe it.

any thoughts on it?

I did my 1990 ford bronco in a white shirt and tie in exactly 22 minutes. I want the coug to be the same way, the air box set up is similar but for did not offer a clip set opening in that sweet spot that made it quick.

I am not lazy by any measure, i just believe that taking out the dash and making slack in various harness connections or undoing connections just increases risk., thats all. doing a heater core in our cars per the manual causes you to have to muddle in all important unrelated areas that can increase risk of damaging pieces parts that really shouldnt be in the heater core game.

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #13 – August 15, 2012, 10:01:01 PM

Agreed^^ not worth the risk.

5 Minute heater core replace???

Reply #14 – August 16, 2012, 07:56:30 AM

I vote to leave it, access is always good. Just like the fuel pump access door in the trunk idea.