Heater hack 89 xj

[tfburton]

I love my 89 XJ, only complaint is the heater, AC system. Really in a word it just sucks. So I was thinking of a hack, or drastic improvement on the current system. If anybody has done any or has any ideas please say something. I want to use the current heater core (because its new, and I payed money for it), but am definitely open to sugestions.

[4x4grey88]

I have an 88 and found that changing out the radiator system form the 88 era to the 92 era worked out very well.

I purchased a three pass radiator (instead of the two pass factory install in the 88 era's) and changed out the heater valve too. It makes a great difference to your air conditioner and heater system.

There are many links listed in Automotiveforums.com

Hope this helps.

[Saudade]

Well, you really need to provide more than "it sucks". What
specifically is the problem?

Otherwise, simply replace everything.

[Stick89]

If your not getting any heat,try
1.backflush the entire cooling system**
2.new t stat
3.new heater and radiator hoses
4.check the water pump make sure it turns but does not "wobble"
(wobble means you can not move it in and out...if it does this,it's time for a new one)
**the heater core will also be cleaned also...Backflushing might require more than one time to flush all the crap out...keep backflushing till the water runs clear then use a 50/50 anti freeze/water mix..
Check all vacumn lines for breaks or cracks...splices can be made with 5/32"gasline hose(braided hose will last longer in the engine compartment)
All the above is the easy stuff....IF you still don't have heat,there is the possibility the heater core is no good it will have to be replaced...which in itself is not anybodys favorite thing to do on a JEEP
GOOD LUCK

[mrbill3]

The heater and AC on my 89 XJ work great. I regularly travel from the 60 degree fog of the coast of Central CA. (wife needs heater on) to the 100+ degree heat of Northern CA. (Redding area-Need AC in order not to die) and it works without problems. Heats-up fast and cools down fast. If you are having trouble with both I would check the tension on the serpentine belt.

[tfburton]

Ive already done the three pass, the heater core is new, just replaced the water pump, and the serpentine belt. I found that there is plenty of heat and cold, but all is running to the floor on the passenger side. I think that one of the valves is off the hinges or something so all the air just goes to one spot. I am building this jeep for fun with all new parts that I can, I already have the evaporator housing exposed, and was thinking of building a hack. I was hoping that somebody out there had done some kind of custom work on theirs. Just a hope.