Heater Core Or Filters

[cwendel4]

Just had a problem. The center vent, only, started to smell like antifreeze when first starting the truck. Was especially present first after a heavy rain. The floor of the truck is dry, no fluid from the drain hose, the inside of the case near the filters was dry and the system held 15 lbs of pressure for over a half an hour and even went up when the sun hit the overflow bottle.

 

I found that the cabin filters had a smell of antifreeze but there was no discoloring of the filters, they just looked black. The smell was also worst when the temp was set to full cold.

 

I changed the filters today and the smell has seemed to disappear. I will check again in the morning.

 

My issue, any ideas about where I could have a leak?

 

I would hate to change the heater core if I didn't need to. I hate tearing out dashes in 90+ degree heat.

[Stex]

Sounds like heater core or a leaking hose clamp or a water pump with a slow dribble...if windshield fogs when you start up it is most likely the heater core...

[txab]

Sounds like heater core or a leaking hose clamp or a water pump with a slow dribble...if windshield fogs when you start up it is most likely the heater core...

+1

[cwendel4]

windshield does not fog up, but I can't find a leak any where. I also do not get the smell when the engine is warm and running. Only at start up.

[cwendel4]

If I do need to change the heater core, anybody have any shortcuts to the job. Like not needing to remove the steering column or wheel, not having to vacuum the A/C system. Any information would be great.

[jrod332]

you shouldnt have to vac the A/C. There is just coolant in the heater core. Last time I changed one I had remove the entire dash.

[cwendel4]

Anybody else confirm that I would not need to vac the A/C and could leave it charged? That would be a great help and make the job better to want to do.

[cwendel4]

jrod332, did you have to pull the entire HVAC case from the firewall or once the dash was off were you able to get the core out?

 

I would like to be able to change the core without opening the A/C system at all if possible.