Heater core leak '94 3.0

[George1]

Thanks for the help on previous cooling system threads I have posted.
Got a leak in my heater core. I understand the $$$$$ and labor involved to replace it. Is there an alternative to replacing it, other than NOT replacing it? Will a good cooling system repair additive work? Vapor comes up through the defrost vents and really fogs up the windows, but it is managable with the heater OFF. But getting winter here now. How dangerous is this stuff when it is vented into the car? If left unrepaired with the heater in use, what happens with the core? Does it blow out evenually? Thanks

[Gravesubject]

Our '95 had this same problem. SilverSeal didn't help, and the core eventually blew out. I had to bypass tubing in the engine compartment (I can tell you how if you're interested). Try SilverSeal first, though, since it might work for you.
The repair costs about $600 USD because they have to rip the whole dashboard off.

[KimMG]

Yes, breathing coolant is bad. The repair costs can be about $1000- if you have A/C. I'm currently looking for an alternative to removing the dash to replace the heater core in my car. As soon as the weather improves, I'm going down the wrecking yard and see if I can remove the heater core by cutting the firewall. If this works, I won't have to drain the A/C, or remove the dash. Other than the A/C, I'm concerned about hooking up all the little vacuum lines behind the dash.

[ilguy1998]

Gravesubject: I would be interested in how you bypassed the tubing and what all it takes. I assume then you have no heat, but what about the A/C.

[KimMG]

ilguy1998- how to bypass the heater core- go to hardware store (cheaper than auto parts store) and get a brass hose splicer 5/8" diameter. Loosen the four hose clamps on the two hoses going to the heater core (firewall). Disconnect the hoses going to the heater core and connect them together using the splicer. Tighten all the clamps. The result is no heat in the passenger compartment. The A/C will work, but it will be cold.

[Gravesubject]

$1, 10 minutes, and an extra sweater.... beats the hell out of parting with $600.