99 Venture heater core.

I am pretty sure I need to replace my heater core. I am getting a strong coolant smell when I turn on the heater or defroster. Another problem that surfaced almost simultaneously was the failure of the "air redirector" system. By that, I mean the knob that sends the air to the defrost vents or heat vents, etc. Any comments on replacing the heater core; tips or warnings?
Thanks. The van is a 99 with 220k.

if you don't want to replace it and still want to drive the car just bypass it.

Thanks, but I am pretty sure my wife would not approve of that.

Thanks, but I am pretty sure my wife would not approve of that.

If the heater core is leaking it will need replacing. Do that first and while the dash is open, inspect the blend door and blend door motor and controls all at the same time.