Heater issue
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Joined: Mar 2010
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Heater issue
I've read the thread about replacing a heater core (knuckle buster!) but my question is - other than the core leaking water - how can you know it needs replacing?
The heater in our 1994 Aerostar is the best heater I've ever seen in a car but suddenly a couple weeks ago, it's not getting as warm.
I've had the core flushed to be sure there is nothing blocking water flow, replaced the thermostat and even the radiator cap. None of this has improved the performance. We also know there is nothing blocking the doors that let in the warm air.
It used to be that just a few miles of city driving in the coldest weather and the heater was so hot you had to lower the temperature, now I can drive it all day and it just gets warm.
I've begun to wonder if there is an electronic component - like a rheostat - or something that could be faulty.
I would replace the core but I understand that you will know it's bad because it will leak, but there is no coolant on the floor and the coolant level stays up where it should be.
Can the core be bad even if it's not leaking?
Anyone have an idea for me?
Thanks
The heater in our 1994 Aerostar is the best heater I've ever seen in a car but suddenly a couple weeks ago, it's not getting as warm.
I've had the core flushed to be sure there is nothing blocking water flow, replaced the thermostat and even the radiator cap. None of this has improved the performance. We also know there is nothing blocking the doors that let in the warm air.
It used to be that just a few miles of city driving in the coldest weather and the heater was so hot you had to lower the temperature, now I can drive it all day and it just gets warm.
I've begun to wonder if there is an electronic component - like a rheostat - or something that could be faulty.
I would replace the core but I understand that you will know it's bad because it will leak, but there is no coolant on the floor and the coolant level stays up where it should be.
Can the core be bad even if it's not leaking?
Anyone have an idea for me?
Thanks
Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 13,873
Likes: 3
From: Atlanta GA
Well, this is not the Aerostar forum, but, to answer the question, the easiest way to tell is to flush it both ways. Then turn the water on low and see if it flows out easily. You might have something blocking the heater core itself. It is not unheard of for mice to build a nest around a heater core or inside an air cleaner.
