Hello all,
Working on a 98 dakota. Has anyone ever used a under dash evaporator for their truck. The heater core is gone, live in Florida so I don't need it. The fan is going and possibly the evap which would all be replaced if I remove the dash. I'm thinking using one of the under dash mount evaps that they have incorporating it my existing compressor, condensor etc. I may bite the bullet and remove the dash, just looking for an easier way. Looking at all options. Thanks for any input as I kinda know most of you will say.....remove the dash. Trucks in good shape, just had it painted. All the mechanicals are now in good shape except for the AC thing. I was an AC mechanic for a lot of years so I don't think sizing the evap will be a problem for me if I decide to convert to an under dash thing. The line set I can make up and make work. I have a new Ram but can't part with my old truck! Just a project I'm working on and almost done. Thanks again.

 

If the heater/fan box is still in the truck, I still think it would be easier to fix what is there, than to add something else......

 

agreed. Just pull the heater core. You can leave it out, but while you're there, replace the evap core since it's probably rotted out too.

 

yes just pull the dash and replace everything may as well replace the heater core too it's just a little more $.

With two people it's way easier and faster to get done don't rush it take your time.

Don't buy cheap parts they never fit properly not worth the problems.

Almost forgot be careful old plastic parts break easy and replacement parts don't exist only junk yard parts.

A pic for you

 

I'll add in that when you replace the evaporator add a ground wire to it. I'm sure being a Floridian HVAC tech you're well aware of galvanic corrosion caused by sea air.

Need it or not, I'd go ahead and replace that heater core and ground that as well. A heater core isn't that expensive. Unless you're at the south end of Florida, it does get cold enough to snow in that state occasionally.

 

Pulling the dash really isn’t that bad I’ve had mine out 3 times over the years it can be done in an evening. Old plastic parts can break as was said so be careful and btw windshields can too lmao don’t ask me how I know. Also make sure you reconnect ground wires you’ll get some weird stuff going on if you miss one

 

A few more I never pulled it out of the truck just to the point I could get the HVAC box out.



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Thanks for the pics, they will be helpful. Gonna order some parts and commit to the job. Might wait til summer is over. Thanks for all your input!!

 

Wait until summer is over to fix your A/C???? That seems just a bit counter-intuitive.

 

yes it does but if you live in a very hot place you avoid doing anything during summer time.