Heater core issues
- Thread starter adam01
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conaero
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Here is the gist of it feel free to add your own personal knowledge:
Gents, I've been a bit irked by the scattered and somewhat useless threads discussing heater core issues. If you comb through these threads, there is little helpful information. I've decided it's due time to properly address this common issue and take the steps to correct what needs correcting.
I'd like to start by letting you guys know I have the Alfa 166 cores available and ready to ship. No more searching the globe and hoping for the best. Anyone who is in need can contact me, I'll be happy to ship one out.
Secondly, after replacing a number of these units I've become suspicious that the issue isn't the actual heater core, but that the hoses going to the box are too soft and the clamps are under-tightened. I'm working on leak testing the last couple of cores I've replaced to confirm this theory...it's just an idea at this point. If this is the case, we can begin to repair this issue at a considerably lower cost and with improved parts. I have access to upgraded multi-layered silicon hoses which are considerably more durable along with very heavy duty clamps to match. I use these parts on the Ferraris, in fact there are complete hose upgrade kits available for those cars. I know for certain these products are superior. I'll be adding these hoses and clamps to the next couple of heater core jobs I do.
As I said, I'm going to pressure test the last couple of cores I've replaced and if I find them to be leak free the next couple repairs i make will be just with upgraded hoses and clamps. Depending on the success of that method I'll update the thread and confirm that as a recommended repair.
Secondly, I see a lot of posters asking how concerned they should be about getting the repair made. The bottom line here is; very concerned. The coolant leaks out and onto electrical connectors and modules mounted under the dash, specifically on the driver's center tunnel area (another common factor that is indicating poor connections). Some have reported parasitic electrical drains, some have reported misbehaving door looks and alarms, others have had airbag system issues and wiring harness melt downs. The point here is that like most things, it's a "simple" problem that leads to big problems if ignored long enough.
I'm in the middle of a heater core job right now, I'll post a couple pictures while the car is apart to help illustrate the issue.
Gents, I've been a bit irked by the scattered and somewhat useless threads discussing heater core issues. If you comb through these threads, there is little helpful information. I've decided it's due time to properly address this common issue and take the steps to correct what needs correcting.
I'd like to start by letting you guys know I have the Alfa 166 cores available and ready to ship. No more searching the globe and hoping for the best. Anyone who is in need can contact me, I'll be happy to ship one out.
Secondly, after replacing a number of these units I've become suspicious that the issue isn't the actual heater core, but that the hoses going to the box are too soft and the clamps are under-tightened. I'm working on leak testing the last couple of cores I've replaced to confirm this theory...it's just an idea at this point. If this is the case, we can begin to repair this issue at a considerably lower cost and with improved parts. I have access to upgraded multi-layered silicon hoses which are considerably more durable along with very heavy duty clamps to match. I use these parts on the Ferraris, in fact there are complete hose upgrade kits available for those cars. I know for certain these products are superior. I'll be adding these hoses and clamps to the next couple of heater core jobs I do.
As I said, I'm going to pressure test the last couple of cores I've replaced and if I find them to be leak free the next couple repairs i make will be just with upgraded hoses and clamps. Depending on the success of that method I'll update the thread and confirm that as a recommended repair.
Secondly, I see a lot of posters asking how concerned they should be about getting the repair made. The bottom line here is; very concerned. The coolant leaks out and onto electrical connectors and modules mounted under the dash, specifically on the driver's center tunnel area (another common factor that is indicating poor connections). Some have reported parasitic electrical drains, some have reported misbehaving door looks and alarms, others have had airbag system issues and wiring harness melt downs. The point here is that like most things, it's a "simple" problem that leads to big problems if ignored long enough.
I'm in the middle of a heater core job right now, I'll post a couple pictures while the car is apart to help illustrate the issue.