heater core

[papawhoisbig]

I have a 97 xj. I know it is leaking because I smell the coolant in the cab and the windows do not de-fog. I was looking for some ideas on how to replace the heater core. any info. would be grateful. Thanks Jake

[Carlson327]

I highly recommend flushing it out first, even trying to flush the whole system. My friend was about to do the same as you, but he took the hoses off from the inlet/outlet and dislodged the obstruction and flush it all out. Everything turned out right. Replacing heater core can be a lot of work.

[Saudade]

OK, let's back up a bit.

First, does the heat work in any other position?

When in defrost, do feel anything blowing out the window vents?

Do you smell the coolant all the time? Or only when you select a "heat" position on your heater control?

Do you see any evidence of coolant leaks inside the engine bay or on the ground?

As far as changing out your core, buy a manual. Or search this forum for the FSM. It's a big job. Make sure you really need to do it before you start ripping things apart.