Heater Core Replacement

[Broosedamoose]

I need to replace the heater core in my truck. How hard is this project. I have a really bad back and can't lean over for too long. Should I attempt this or should I bring it in.

 

[Uncle Gump]

Later models are way harder then the old ones. The dash has to be roll out... pretty much an all day project.

Also moved this to the heating forum... just trying to keep things orderly.

 

[Alan_nc]

In my 93 it took less than 1/2 hour total.
You don't mention what year you are working on....as mentioned .....the newer the harder it is.

 

[RonD]

He has a 2007 so the dash must be pulled most of the way out to change the heater core

I assume you FOR SURE know the heater core is leaking and it's not something else, because it is a big project

There are several videos on whats involved, Google: Ford ranger heater core change video

Pretty much the same on 1995 and up Rangers, 1994 and earlier were WAY EASIER, as Alan said 1/2 hour tops

1995 and up is spec'ed as a 9 hour job but doesn't take that long, but for sure plan on 4 or 5 hours
Probably wouldn't be good if you have a hard time bending over or getting under the dash
There is no heavy lifting just awkward body angles

Just as a heads up, the Blend Door Actuator was a common failing on Fords, its the Temp Control for the cab
It's very easy to change with dash out, in fact you are suppose to pull the dash back to change it same as heated core
You may want to put in a new one just as general maintenance, but "if it ain't broken don't fix it" is your way, like it is mine, lol, then never mind
It's just a heads up

 

[Broosedamoose]

I brought in to my mechanic and he is telling me it's not the heater core but the blend door actuator. He said it's still a big job because he needs to pull the dash out in order to get to it. Looks to be a 5 to 6 hundred dollar job! This sucks!

 

[fastpakr]

IIRC, there's a bit of a backdoor method to doing the blend door without pulling the dash.

 

[fastpakr]

The actuator is externally accessible (if my quick dive was accurate):

The blend door itself can be more involved.

Ford Explorer Nail Fix experiments. - HeaterTreater

HeaterTreater offers the ultimate solution to blend door repair. Fix your car's head and A/C in as little as an hour and save up to $1493 in replacement parts and labor costs!

heatertreater.net

 

[RonD]

+1 ^^^

Yes, the Ford way does require pulling the dash back to access the blend door actuator
And if you are going to have that done then replace the heater core at the same time, just because it requires the same disassembly

But as said you do not have to do it that way, it can be changed via glove box opening, just a tight squeeze
OK for DIY
A shop wouldn't do it that way because they need to warranty their work