Heater Control Valve replacement

[meetthemoon]

I took my '96 Ford Ranger, 2.3L, to get a leak check out, the shop said that the Heater Control Valve has to be replaced. Since it's way cheaper to replace myself, I need some help on how to do this.

Where is the Heater Control Valve located on a '96 Ford Ranger, 2.3L, 2WD, Manual Transmission? Any tips on what first timer problems I should avoid? Thanks.

 

[Super95]

95 is in engine bay on passenger side,near coolant overflow tank, connected to heater hoses running to firewall. 96 the same? i think. Match new part to old to be sure its correct, change with cold engine. loosen clamps, position hoses to correct place. coolant is going to spill (not much) unless you drain it(unneccesary), use a small pan or towel directly under valve and clean up spilled coolant completely. check for leaks after change while running with heat on. may want a little extra coolant to add after change, after air is purged. recheck after driving and cooled down. Hope this helps.

 

[RaceRanger97]

I just changed it on my 97 and it was exactly at as Super95 explained. Took all of 5 mins. I sugest you put a towel or something over the alternator because I got coolant all over mine and now i think it is going out.