C3 Heater Core blues

[Rob H.]

I have a '69 BB Non-Air condo and was distraught when I encountered the "steam on the front window and wetness on the passenger side carpet" scenario -- seems my heater core must be toast. I did some research in the archives and am going to tackle the procedure myself. I heard that there are two ways; through the firewall, and the engine compartment. If anyone has any recommendations on where best to source a replacement heater core and seals, any tips, OR better yet "step-by-step" instructions it would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance -- and like many others have expressed, this board is a HUGE help especially to us greenhorns out there...

[Jim T.]

Re: C3 Heater Core blues

I have only done three, two 70's and one 85. I used the service manual instructions and removed the heater core from the inside on these cars. All the cars were air conditoned. My replacement heater cores were from GM Delco. Don't believe they are available now for your 69. It is a common heater core and a trip to the Auto Zone counter will probably get you one overnight that most likely will be as good as any of the other suppliers. Someone said most are made in Mexico these days. You have some driving days left, don't waste them, cap off the heater hoses and wait until it is to cold to drive it. The interior might be just a couple degrees cooler with the hot coolant going through the heater core.

[Rob H.]

Re: C3 Heater Core blues

Thanks for the info Jim. Since I'm in So. Cal. I figured I could hold off a bit and just by-pass it. Eventually I want it back to form and will tackle it then.

[Paul L.]

Re: C3 Heater Core blues

I had a 1979 (non-A/C) for 15+ years and did that job twice from the firewall side. Things are a tight fit but it can be done. It was a two-beer, 90-minute job. I got the core from a local AC Delco dealer.

[Paul L.]

Second Pic

I bought a new rubber gasket for the core snouts. The old was rather dry and rotted.

[Rob H.]

Re: Second Pic

Thanks for the info and the pics Paul.

[Paul L.]

Re: Second Pic

Rob,
I was just trying to make the point that the core can come out the front. Hope it saves you some time and misery trying it from the inside. That's an 8-9 hour job.