2000 Silverado 1500, Heat Problems

The wife is complaining that the heat is not as good when the truck was new. The truck has around 60k miles. Here is what has been done, I have replaced the thermostat, then I had the cooling system flushed and replaced the antifreeze.

I am thinking that the heater core is partially blocked. How hard is to replace. Just looking under the dash it look like it is going to be a real pia.:banghead: It might be easier just to have my mechanic replace the heater core.

The wife is complaining that the heat is not as good when the truck was new. The truck has around 60k miles. Here is what has been done, I have replaced the thermostat, then I had the cooling system flushed and replaced the antifreeze.

I am thinking that the heater core is partially blocked. How hard is to replace. Just looking under the dash it look like it is going to be a real pia.:banghead: It might be easier just to have my mechanic replace the heater core.

the heater core hoses at the engine require removal .this is done at every coolant replacement cycle every 3-4 yrs. flushing these lines that connect to the heater core must be thoughly flushed/blown out to remove debris absorbed by the heater core..

the engine flushing services do not do this [takes tooooo much time ] also the use of GM approved dexcool and distilled water must be used ...If tap or well water is used this heater core will plug up quickly..


seaching these forums you will find many with this issue resolved...by this action..


when filling with the engine cold start engine add coolant rev engine to 2ooo rpm and keep filling till at normal engine temp..this is how to remove the air .....................


removal/replacement of the heater core or the hoses attached to the heater core is not recommended..

DO NOT REMOVE THE HOSES FROM THE HEATER CORE.....

if the heater core is damaged just buy a new vehicle..the complete dash will require removal !

The wife is complaining that the heat is not as good when the truck was new. The truck has around 60k miles. Here is what has been done, I have replaced the thermostat, then I had the cooling system flushed and replaced the antifreeze.

I am thinking that the heater core is partially blocked. How hard is to replace. Just looking under the dash it look like it is going to be a real pia.:banghead: It might be easier just to have my mechanic replace the heater core.

Before trying to replace heater core a 8-12 hr job check thing out.

Make sure egine is coming up to 195 degrees operqating tempt.
Make sure rad and coolant tank are both full of coolant.
Make sure AC/heater is switching cold to hot and all vents and doors are working good.
Auto Matic or regular AC/heater controls?

Feel heater hose where they go into heater core.
Is one or both hot to the touch?

A plug heater core can usually be flushed or blowed or cleaned out 95 % of the time.

Pull heater hose and check for good coolant flow/circulation threw heater core.
If not start cleaning or flushing out heater core.

Let us know what you find on stopped up heater core or other problems.
And some one can lead you threw repair.

Thank for the suggestions, that is one thing that I never do. I always use distilled water.

I had this problem with my 2000 z71. I disconnected the heater hoses, not at firewall and back flushed the heater core, small chunks, etc come out, works great now.

just in case, keep in mind that dexcool IS NOT supposed to be mixed with anything but dexcool. i have learned this only 2 mths ago. it is known dexcool bug. it jellyfies and turns into goo, plugging everything.