Heater Core Replacement 2nd generation Explorer / Ranger

[tlange]

Does anyone out there have a trick to change the heater core on a 1998 Explorer without removing the dashboard? It seems to me that there must be an easier way.

Thanks,
Tim

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! I don't think something like this could have a short cut unless you want to use a can opener. This job doesn't seem too difficult on a 1st generation Explorer: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=135049. I had to do it on my 89 van many years ago, and it looks similar to the photos in this thread.

 

[dogfriend]

Yes, 1st Gen was easy; I had a Ranger with the same dash/AC design and changed the heater core in about 30 min.

Unfortunately, on 2nd Gen, the manual says you have to remove the dash. I haven't seen anyone post an alternate method.

If I ever need to replace mine, I'm probably going to donate it and take a tax deduction. :

 

[dogfriend]

Here is a thread where I posted the heater core replacement according to the manual:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=143617&highlight=heater+core