nickbeee

On a ’98 2.3 CL

What would be a good way to check if a heater core is leaking besides ripping into the car? Would coolant come out where condensation normaly comes out? I have not noticed any as of yet…

I have the service manual and it seems like lots has to some out to get to the heater core. Does just the dash need to come out or also the steering wheel and column? Not looking forward to that.

davida3392

i busted my heater core doing an engine swap in my 98. according to the manual, dash, steering column and all needs to come out. My main concern is working with the air bags. I have half a notion to take it to my mechanic so if they blow, he gets to replace them and not me. as far as diagnosing. I had coolant running down the front of the firewall out from the heater core. i'm currently running a by-pass and it's starting to get chilly here in MD.
hope that was helpful.

TexasHonda

I've never had a Honda or Acura heater core failure, but I'm sure it happens. Before tearing into the dash, remove the intake duct, and remove the heater hoses connecting to the core. Use some heater hose, inlet valve, clamps, garden hose adapters, tee, pressure gauge, and bleeder valve. Connect one side directly to home water w/ inline valve and other end is blinded w/ tee to pressure gauge and bleed valve. Flush all air first, close bleed valve to adjust pressure, and then close water supply inlet valve and bleed valve at same time. Apply about 15-20 psi, check for any leaks in your test rig, and see if pressure holds. A steady decline in pressure would indicate a heater core leak. This test is a bit of trouble, but a whole lot less than removing that heater core, and finding it is sound.

good luck