i just got done rebuilding the top end of my 88 dakota. 3.9L and now i think im leaking coolant from my heater core into the cab of the truck and onto the ground directly below the transmission/bell housing. why is this and how hard is a heater core job on my truck?

 

The two probably arent connected, just bad timing. Heater cores go out just like everything else.

They are usually a bit of a headache but not real hard. More of an awkward thing getting to them.

 

thanks a bunch. have you ever tried radiator stop leak? will it make it to the heater core?

 

Actually Ive used eggs before. No Im not kidding. And yes it works. Well.....usually. And for a while. Mythbusters even tried it. Yup......

No I wouldnt. I would just replace it. Its a minor PIA, but for a 30 dollar part its not worth messing with a bunch of addititves and potentially messy crap. Besides, if its leaking that bad why make your interior smell like crap and get incredibly dirty. Your also helping the forces of rust ruin your truck.

Im all for doing things the cheap way, but this one just aint worth it.

 

You can just connect the hoses together and bypass the heater core all together. That will make time until you can change it out. You can check the FAQ for service manuals that will help in removing and installing the heater core. Winter is coming soon.