Does anyone know how to do it or where i can get it done? i just discovered my heater core went bad and i need to take out the whole HVAC system to get to it. I'm not entirely sure but i think the refrigerant has to be drained to take out the HVAC.

 

You are correct the HVAC system must be drained and reclaimed, this requires specialized equipment to capture the freon as well as a vacuum pump to dry and pull a vacuum in the system prior to refilling. You will need to take it to someone that is familiar with the process and has the equipment. If you can't find an independent then a stealership. It is illegal to vent freon into the atmosphere, also depending on what state you live in I think some require a HVAC certificate to buy the freon. Personally I would pay to have the entire job done by a shop as the number of times you will need the equipment doesn't justify the expense of purchasing it.

 

I'm just going to pay to have it drained and do it myself, the cheapest quote i got was $2.100! for a $200 part!

 

Holy crap, for a heater core? Sounds like they are replacing the whole HVAC system for that price. At that price I would do it myself too. Replacing the heater core is mostly labor. Keep in mind you will need to remove the console, lower the steering column and remove the instrument panel assembly to get the air conditioning housing from the firewall, at least on the front. Make sure you mark all your vac lines and plugs to make sure you hook it all back up right. By the way when they reclaim the freon they can put it back into the vehicle when you are done without having to buy all new freon unless it is contaminated, but even then if they have the right reclaim station it will filter or recondition the old freon for reuse. Most shops will probably try to make you purchase new freon though, but you might be able to negotiate a better deal if they know you are informed and understand the situation.

 

Yeah, I've heard that they can reuse the r134 that they drain out, that stuff is also expensive. Not as much as the garage wants to do it for though haha