67 heater core advice needed

[Patrick B.]

When my 67 non-AC car last ran 20 years ago, there were no leaks in the heater core. Now with the body off the frame, I'm wondering if I should replace the heater core as a precaution.

Should I try to test the present heater core in place rather than removing it?
Where can I get a high quality replacement?
Can it be replaced more easily from the firewall side?
What kind of sealer/adhesive will I encounter trying to remove the firewall heater housing?
Is the heater valve subject to failure by sitting so long?IMG_1111.jpg

[Mike T.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Pat - You say that 20 years ago, your heater core didn't leak but how old was it 'then'? Since it sounds like you have the car torn down, I'd at least have it pressure tested now before you put it back into use.

[Paul D.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Pat,I replaced mine while doing body off......A lot easier......they are cheap and kinda covered up....No reason to ruin carpet if it leaks a short while after car is done....P..

[Harry S.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Patrick, pressure test it as suggested. If you decide to replace it, look for one made in Mexico. Pressure test the new one also as insurance.

The core is inside the interior box. You need to pull the engine side first (carefully), no reason break anything. Remove the glove box and remove the cable connections and the center support bolt behind the radio. I suggest a person on the engine side for support and one on the inside for support. It will take two to get it out. You can do it with one but you get more breakage that way. Rebuilt the box if it's rusted if you wish. Obtain a new seal kit from Dr. Rebuild....

Good Luck

[Joe R.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Patrick,

Definately change the heater core. The Delphi units are made in Mexico and are of high quality. DO NOT check the unit as the tanks used contain a small amount of acid and if you don't fill them immediately you will have a problem in a few months. Just thinking ahead!

JR

[Patrick B.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Patrick,

Definately change the heater core. The Delphi units are made in Mexico and are of high quality. DO NOT check the unit as the tanks used contain a small amount of acid and if you don't fill them immediately you will have a problem in a few months. Just thinking ahead!

JR

Thanks Joe. Any idea of the part number? I went to the Delphi wedsite and it only talked about heater cores in general without any way to look up specific applications. Good tip about pressure tests at a radiator shop!

[Mike E.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Patrick, pressure test it as suggested. If you decide to replace it, look for one made in Mexico. Pressure test the new one also as insurance.

Good Luck

I got this one for my non-air '65 from Advanced Auto....I think I paid about $38 after some online coupons codes. The local store didn't have it so it was shipped in from a local warehouse. The preinstall pressure test seems like a good idea. I have not removed the old one so I can't say how they compare.











Mike

[Joe L.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Thanks Joe. Any idea of the part number? I went to the Delphi wedsite and it only talked about heater cores in general without any way to look up specific applications. Good tip about pressure tests at a radiator shop!

Patrick------



GM #52484057, aka Delco 15-60119.

This is probably the Delphi-manufactured unit. However, it MIGHT also be the same as those sold under other brands for a lot less. Or, it might not.

[Patrick B.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Patrick------



GM #52484057, aka Delco 15-60119.

This is probably the Delphi-manufactured unit. However, it MIGHT also be the same as those sold under other brands for a lot less. Or, it might not.

Joe, thanks for the part number. I will order one of these.

I finally found a Delphi catalog by Year/Make/Model, and it only listed 3 parts for a 67 Corvette: the heater blower motor, small block ignition wires, and I think an A/C part. No heater core.

NAPA online listed a 67 Corvette heater core with a Spectrum Premium brand name (part # NHC 6603525) at the surprising price of $209. Is this a superior quality part or just a giant markup? I didn't think NAPA was a higher margin business than the Corvette parts suppliers.

[Joe R.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Patrick,

E-bay is just loaded with C-2 heater cores well under 100 bucks. I think the ones with the blue caps on the ends are the Spectra Premium cores.

JR

[Joe L.]

Re: 67 heater core advice needed

Joe, thanks for the part number. I will order one of these.

I finally found a Delphi catalog by Year/Make/Model, and it only listed 3 parts for a 67 Corvette: the heater blower motor, small block ignition wires, and I think an A/C part. No heater core.

NAPA online listed a 67 Corvette heater core with a Spectrum Premium brand name (part # NHC 6603525) at the surprising price of $209. Is this a superior quality part or just a giant markup? I didn't think NAPA was a higher margin business than the Corvette parts suppliers.

Patrick------


Spectra Premium is a high quality brand. However, you can get these for a lot less than $209.