Long time viewer first time registering; because im needing some help.
Ive got a heater core problem here are the symptoms (because im sure someone is going to ask)
No heat
Fogs up front windshield
Smells like antifreeze in cabin
And now it blows a antifreeze steam in from the vents and defroster.

So im on winter break and firgured its a good time to tackle this job, and what a job it is. I spent about 7hrs just getting to the heater core, (took alot of pics and will post the diy.

So here is my delemia, where can I get a new Heater Core. I was going to do the whole pick n pull thing but after spending this much time in it I think I want to get a brand new one. Im not seeing any online, does any one know of any conversions?

Any help is appreciated.

Here is my ride
97 Montero LS
235, 000 miles
<img src="/forums/images/graemlins/scared.gif" alt="" />

I bought a new heater core for my 1989 Raider on RockAuto.com. You should be able to find a newer vehicles heater core easily. On the off chance you don't find it there, www.mitsubishiparts.net will definitely have it.

Personally, I think you may find a JY heater core easier to pull now that you are familiar with the process.

I didn't see one for that model on Rock Auto. If you PM me a VIN number, I can look up the part number on the ASA program.

John B.

I have a new MB813485 sitting in its box which I think is the correct heater core for a Gen 2. Let me know if you are interested in it.

I am interested in the heater core. Can you please send me a picture of it?.

Here is my vin number: JA4MR41R5VJ005881

My 1999 Montero is doing the same thing. I plan to buy a new OEM core as well.

Wow... I finally got it out... looking at this set up im going to go with a different Heater core. The way they have pipes is CRAZY. I'll get back to yall in a bit, going to check some options.

Still learning how to post pics, and thats not going well either..ill try again late.

I'll reserve final judgement until I see what you have planned, but I don't think you're going to be able to replace the OEM heater core with anything other than a similar replacement and have it function like the original. Finding one that will fit in the existing housing is key, otherwise air leaks will reduce it's effectiveness. The hose routing is very likely done the way it is for a specific reason, however illogical it may seem. If you can engineer a system better than the Mitsubishi engineers, I'll be amazed and impressed.

Well not there yet but, we (local radiator shop and I) have a great plan. So far the best match is a 2001 Toyota Camry. The pipe connectors are perfect, but we aregoingbto check the dimensions for fit. On paper its perfect, but dont know yet.

I dont know what you mean by air leaks, the original one wasnt ait tight. It has a porous sponge like material around the top. In no way was or is this air tight. But in case im wrong ill bring this concern up and see what he says.

Thanks for the help.

I apologize - after rereading my post I realized it sounded very critical and unsupportive, not at all what I was trying to convey. If you can find something that fits and works well in the factory location and is cheaper and more commonly available than the original part, that's a benefit to the whole community, and I applaud you.

I've replaced numerous heater cores over the years and they have all been fairly specifically engineered for their application due to packaging requirements under the dash. Most of them have been tricky enough to replace with one designed for the vehicle, much less one that isn't even supposed to fit in that space.