84 Caprice needs heater core?

[mike_dmt]

Have a coolant leak under the A/C box under the hood. Not from the hoses. Should I assume it's just a bad core? Do I change it from the engine compartment, or behind the glove box?

[danielsatur]

I would consider bypassing the Heat core for a temp fix.

1) Disconnect the heater core from the outsider of the fire wall connection.
2) Connect the two hoses together with hose clamps and piping.

If the fluid is sweet smelling it's going tobe a bad heater core, if it's water it look for a block AC drain.

[mike_dmt]

Yeah, I have it bypassed now, and it was coolant for sure. I was just wondering how to access it for replacement mostly.

[silicon212]

You're in luck, the heater core can be removed from under the hood, and you don't have to spend a whole lot of time (work) doing it, either. It's not a tough job. GM used the same design on this from 1977 through 1990 so parts should be available. When I replaced the core on mine about 4 years ago, the new part cost $29 at Autozone.

[j cAT]

Originally Posted by mike_dmt

Yeah, I have it bypassed now, and it was coolant for sure. I was just wondering how to access it for replacement mostly.

the replacement would be removal of the top cover from the engine compartment. using air pressure check that it is leaking at the core. 15 psi / with some soapy water...

when installing or closing up this air box use sealers to prevent underhood air from being injested into the ac/ heating air box..