Notices
1997 - 2003 F150 1997-2003 F150, 1997-1999 F250LD, 7700 & 2004 F150 Heritage
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by: Auxito

Heater Core Problems???

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old Oct 20, 2004 | 12:54 PM
  #1  
naturalmeddoc's Avatar
naturalmeddoc
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
From: Iowa
Heater Core Problems???

I have a 97' F150 4x4 with a 5.4L. As I was driving to work this morning I turned on the heater and soon noticed a distinct anti-freeze/coolant smell in the cab, presumably coming from the vents. Shortly thereafter, the inside of the windshield began to significantly haze/fog over, which was only alleviated by running the defrost on the cold temperature setting. Are these the classic symptoms of a bad heater core? If so, what are some good tips to use to fix it besides taking out the glovebox, passenger side kick panel, etc.?
 
Reply
Old Oct 20, 2004 | 02:27 PM
  #2  
banjopicker66's Avatar
banjopicker66
Postmaster
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 3,613
Likes: 6
From: Coal country
These trucks are notorious for losing heater cores. I jsut had mine replaced. I didn't have the time to fix it, so had to pay to have it done.
$600.
 
Reply
Old Oct 20, 2004 | 05:02 PM
  #3  
naturalmeddoc's Avatar
naturalmeddoc
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
From: Iowa
I'm Diggin' In To The Heater Core!

Hi all, just wanted to let you know I'm pretty sure it's the heater core after doing more research. Autozone and O'Reilly's each want $54.99 and their's has a lifetime warranty. Ford's sells for $34.99 and has a 1 year warranty and they will charge me over $500 to do the job. So...I'm Diggin' In! Glove box is out and airbag is next...wish me luck! Oh...I do have a couple of questions:

1. Is it necessary to drop the steering column? I've read elsewhere that it can be done without dropping it.

2. Is it necessary to replace the O-rings on the heater hoses? If so, any ideas on who might carry/stock them.

Thanks!
 
Reply
Old Oct 20, 2004 | 09:28 PM
  #4  
bosshoss's Avatar
bosshoss
Elder User
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 778
Likes: 1
I would get the o-rings and clips from ford. You will also need the foam that goes around the heater core as well. Mark your connectons well and get a box for screws your going to need them. Good luck

Dave P.
 
Reply
Old Nov 12, 2004 | 03:51 PM
  #5  
naturalmeddoc's Avatar
naturalmeddoc
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 12
Likes: 0
From: Iowa
Heater Core Fixed, New Problem Though...

Hey everyone, thanks for the tips on replacing the heater core. I installed a new one after many hours of work and it is working great! I also sprayed some diluted bleach into the ductwork to kill any bacteria/mold. Unforturnately, I just realized that I am only getting heat/air through one path...it doesn't change to only the floor, defrost, or dash when I turn the selector ****. Right now it seems to be stuck on coming mostly out of the defrost and some out of the floor...little to none out of the dash. I'm pretty sure it's not the blend door cause' I can still control the temperature.
Thanks again for the help!
 

Last edited by naturalmeddoc; Nov 12, 2004 at 04:47 PM. Reason: title
Reply




All times are GMT -5. The time now is 11:43 AM.

story-0
This Hennessey Takes the Expedition Tremor's Off-Roading Capability to the Next Level

Slideshow: The VelociRaptor Expedition gains a lift, upgraded suspension, Brembo brakes, and trail-ready equipment while retaining the stock 440-horsepower EcoBoost V6.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-06-12 11:01:55


VIEW MORE
story-1
Top 10 Fords at 2026 Carlisle Ford Nationals

Slideshow: Top 10 Fords at 2026 Ford Nationals

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-09 11:10:08


VIEW MORE
story-2
3 Best / 3 Worst Parts of Modern Ford Ownership

Based on years of owning multiple modern Ford products.

By Brett Foote | 2026-06-09 10:53:36


VIEW MORE
story-3
10 Amazing Upgrades That Solve Common Ford Truck Owner Headaches

SPONSORED: From muddy boots to rain-soaked cargo, these upgrades address some of the most common frustrations Ford truck owners face every day.

By Pouria Savadkouei | 2026-06-08 18:50:34


VIEW MORE
story-4
Every 2026 Ford Engine Explained

Here's everything you need to know about every Ford engine available for the 2026 model year.

By Brett Foote | 2026-06-05 12:58:01


VIEW MORE
story-5
10 Ugly Ford Trucks That We Still Kinda Love

Slideshow: 10 ugly Ford trucks that we still kinda love.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-06-03 09:51:16


VIEW MORE
story-6
10 Things Every Truck Owner NEEDS (2026 Edition)

Slideshow: the best gifts for dads & grads

By Michael S. Palmer | 2026-06-03 15:43:58


VIEW MORE
story-7
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath

Slideshow: Called the Fortress, the 850-horsepower pickup combines Raptor underpinnings with military-inspired features, survival equipment, and a starting price of $285,000.

By Verdad Gallardo | 2026-06-03 11:38:36


VIEW MORE
story-8
Top 10 Most Expensive Ford Trucks Ever Sold on Bring a Trailer

Slideshow: 10 most expensive Ford trucks ever sold on Bring a Trailer.

By Joe Kucinski | 2026-05-27 16:24:34


VIEW MORE
story-9
2027 Ford Super Duty Buyer's Guide (Every Model, Engine, & Package)

Here's everything that has changed for the latest model year.

By Brett Foote | 2026-05-27 16:17:28


VIEW MORE