I've detected a faint smell of coolant while driving. It's primarily noticed after the car's been driven a little while, most noticeable after pulling to a stop after coming off the highway. I've searched for leaks under the hood and up under the dask...none found. I did notice a little moisture (2"x2" area) on the underside of the passenger's floor mat, centered approximately 1' down from the firewall. The carpet didn't appear or feel to be wet, pulled back the carpeting and didn't find any moisture or wetness on the floorboard itself. Felt up and around this general area of the firewall and didn't feel any wetness, but it did feel very warm to the touch? From what I've described, is this the beginning for the need to replace the heater core? If that's the case, I'm interested in any advise on such task. I have and already read the Service Manual, but would like and need more info/advise from anyone who's had a similar experience/work task. Thanks.
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Re: 1974 Heater Core
Ray------
Yes, it sounds exactly like the way that heater core problems first make themself known. There's quite a bit of work involved to replace the heater core (more if the car has A/C). However, basically, what has to be done is removal of the right side dash pad, center gauge assembly, and inner heater box. The heater core is within the inner heater box and is removed and replaced. Then, the removal steps are reversed to put everything back together.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: 1974 Heater Core
I believe that you stated that you have a Service Manual. Pay careful attention as to where the fasteners are. If you are not careful you will miss the fact that there is one nut of the engine side of the cowl. Hopefully this little hint will save you a lot of agravation.Dick WhittingtonComment
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Re: 1974 Heater Core
I have done three heater core changes, not any fun. You might want to go ahead now and using a sharp knife cut the heater hoses off the heater core inlet and outlet to keep any more coolant from saturating your carpet with coolant. Check out www.tonyscorvetteshop.com and for a link of removing and replacing a heater core in a 70 Corvette with air.Comment
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Re: 1974 Heater Core
Thanks for the replies. Two additional things...a prior owner told me that he installed an aftermarket shutoff valve on the inlet hose to the heater core, easily accessable for off & on operation during summer and early winter driving. It's been closed shut for the past two summers. After opening the valve (no leaks), I took the car for a decent ride, closed the windows, and ran the heat. There was no moisture buildup on the glass, and surprisingly, no detection of the coolent smell that was present during a ride taken earlier this morning when this valve was shut. Again, when I pulled back the carpet and padding, there is no sign of any moisture. The front/angled part of the floor is just as warm to the touch as before (typical?) and their is no hint of any leaks, evidenced by either drips marks or wet spots on the floor/pad/carpet. Any thoughts on how the opening of this shutoff valve would eliminate or camouflage the previous symptoms? Thanks.Comment
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Re: 1974 Heater Core
I don't think operating the valve had any effect on your heater core leaking. I have replaced the heater cores in my 70 and my 85 years ago. However the 68's still has the original heater core. Mayby I just got a good one in the 68, however it could leak tomorrow. Good luck on your replacement experience. Take your time, and be patient. Be careful with the instrument cluster the metal frame will break easily on both sides about 4-5 inches from the top.Comment
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