So ... I started digging into my heater core today and it definitely doesn't look like a good time. Got some quick questions, though, for anyone who's done a heater core replacement on a Rodeo ... (and yes -- I did do a thorough search)

From reading other posts, it seems apparent that the plastic <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/angry.gif" alt="" /> inlet/outlets coming through the firewall are actually attached to the core itself. Anyone figure out a way to get a heater core with metal connections?

Do I really have to discharge the air conditioning system before undertaking this? It seems not, but have others accomplished this without?

Man ... I've replaced a lot of heater cores in the past, but this is easily the WORST I've had to deal with.

Any other hints? My Chilton book just says to "remove the dashboard" but I'm hoping I don't have to tear it all out. Looks like I'll be removing the steering wheel, though.

And finally ... anyone know of any shops in Denver to do something like this? I think it might be worth a few hundred to avoid the pain and twisted vertebrae from working under the dash.

Thanks!

Steve W.

btt

Write Jlemond@Bellsouth.net and ask him your questions. I bought a complete heater box for my 93 Rodeo for the same reason. I haven't done it yet. but I understand the dash will come out fairly easy and will be much easier to change out the entire housing than just the core. As for having to remove the A/C, I dunno! He may even be able to supply you with the parts you need for this. He's a great source of new and used parts.
Jerry's a retired Isuzu Factory Training Rep. So he knows how to tell people the best way to do a job.
He suggested once, that I add a radiator sealer in the water as it might solve a small leak like mine.

CJ

Thanks Curtis! Jerry was nice enough to give me a response, which is paraphrased below:



I can get a core by itself (not sure if it's rebuilt or new) from rockauto.com for just a little over $100.00. And while this might take Jerry just 4 hours ro so, it would probably take me a weekend.

Some of the rockauto.com cores look like they may be metal and not have the plastic on top, though I am just guessting from the drawing.

Anyone have any insight on that?