Heater Core Replacement

[Bradsp8]

Does the entire heater box need to come out to replace the heater core?

 

[EPB72]

yes factory box?

 

[Bradsp8]

Yes, factory box. I'm getting coolant dripping on passenger side floor.

 

[pcf_mark]

Yes it is pretty easy don't let the location scare you. Clean it up and put in the later bigger blower motor you will love it.

 

[JeepGuy]

Errrrrrrrrr..... Man I was hoping to find a different answer to this...

 

[jerry]

I've done it, it's really a lot easier than a lot of vehicles. And once you have the heater box removed
Buy the heater box seal kit (example: https://www.wildhorses4x4.com/early-bronco-heater-box-seal-kit). Consider your heater hoses and your defrost vent hoses while you're in there, and maybe the control valve?

Do the motor swap if you're so inclined. (Examples: https://www.broncozone.com/threads/early-bronco-heater-upgrade.18919/#entry111095 https://www.wildhorses4x4.com/early-bronco-heat-blaster-heater-blower-upgrade)

I'd like to see someone comment with a good quality heater core source. The auto parts store parts are hit and miss nowadays.

 

[SteveL]

I've had good luck with the local napa parts. You may be able to get something higher end from a radiator shop

 

[pcf_mark]

Buy a name brand. I had a parts store one leak right out of the box. I looked but could never find a larger core but the bigger blower motor is amazing!

 

[jerry]

Here's a (mega)thread for the larger blower motor & fan: https://classicbroncos.com/forums/threads/heater-motor-upgrade.54371/

 

[Oldtimer]

Errrrrrrrrr..... Man I was hoping to find a different answer to this...

I see you have already put new core in the box.
Pick up a couple of these heater hoses, and trim the short end to fit between firewall and inner fender.
They are a lot easier to route than straight hose.

 

[JeepGuy]

Thanks fellas. The Heater Core was the only part of the box I didn't replace when I upgraded the fan and re did all the foam in the seal kit. I water tested it and it held just fine, but I'm guessing after a few heat cycles it broke free whatever was keeping it together. Just another lesson in do it right the first time. At this point I think that heater core was the only original part left behind the dash.