Has anyone replaced a heater core on a 98 U270? Scale of 1 to 10, how difficult?
Al
Al,
I helped another owner do this job and I would rate it at a 2.5-3. You have to remove about 75 screws to get this job done. Once you have it in your mind that most of that section of the dash, that has the core hid in it, has to come apart it's not hard. You have several duct hoses that when removed gives you room to get to the heater core box and the screws that hold it together. (did I mention a half of a 5 gallon bucket of screws). This is compared to having to remove the right front fender off of some of the '80's Pontiac cars that I would rate at a 9.
Pamela & Mike
We agree with Pamela & Mike. Open the center lid and remove every screw into the floor and side dash. Take photos before and as you go to help put it back.
But our heater core started to leak in spring, so we first put two ball valves on the heater hoses on the side of the Cummins engine, closed them off for months until it was time to change the heater core. We were sure we had a heater core leak by capturing the liquid from the dash air condensate hose that hangs down curbside near the generator, and used a hydrometer to verify it was coolant.
Barry has a great point to take photos of all the pieces. We even numbered them as we took the panels apart.
Pamela & Mike
Appreciate the information. After reading the replies, I wouldn't hesitate tackling this repair.
If we purchase a Foretravel, I would need to do most of the maintenance and repairs myself. Willing to learn and thanks to this Forum, guidance is close at hand.
Al
There's a thread or two about heater core or A/C evaporator replacement. They have pictures. Hardest part is removing the dash. I haven't replaced either, but I've been up there and changed my A/C expansion valve TXV.
Did our 99 U270 about 4 years ago.
Here's my procedure with pics:
Heater core replacement (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=10000.msg45564#msg45564)
Dave,
Thank you for the information and pictures. Will save me a good bit of money. Beside saving money, I know the job will be done right.
Al
Al,
With your coach at that age, while you have that much apart you might consider going on and replacing (it is more work) the blower motor.
If you replace the motor and clean out the blower wheels it will be smooth, quiet and move a lot of air.
John,
You read my mind. My next question would be. While the dash is apart, what else should I replace?
Al
Al,
I sent you a PM.
JD
I strongly concur with John Duld's recommendation. You don't want to open that area again later, and the blower will get dirty and the motor will likely need to be replaced at some point.