recently got a puddle formation when i drive in passenger side floorboard, i have a 97 ram, and i know its the heater core, but how do i get to it? what bolts need to come off the dash to get to it, does the entire dash need to come off. Detailed answer would help best, thank you.

 

Check out this thread and download the Field Service Manual.

 

The Service manuel works GREAT (just did this job as well as the AC evaporator and condensor) this weekend. One note...get a friend. You do NOT have to remove the dash completely just lean it out (it pivots on one major bolt on either side) and then with a friend have them pick the passenger side up and out (its not light) and then you will need to remove the HVAC housing that holds the heater core and evap. (the manuel will show you how to remove it) it takes some wiggling and rotating but it will come out. Then disassemble it and wash it out! replace the heater core and reassemble. Last thing there is a vaccum connector that houses the vaccum lines that connect to the acuaters that move the blender doors back and forth...use that DONT remove the lines frrom the accuators themselves otherwise you have to remember where they went and if you get it wrong you will have some very messed up heater controls and removing the unit again to try and get it right.

And i think you will need a pair of disconnects for the AC lines...you can buy them at autozone fore $10's

 

my dash is cracked in several places, dont know why it was taken care of, even had a cover on it the whole time, do you think that will affect this process

 

Just be REALLY careful working on the dash if the lid is cracked. The pieces are very sharp. (Don't ask. Just take my word for it.)

 

I believe there is a petition going around for some sort of class action against Chrysler for the dashes cracking. It's a HUGE problem.

Good luck with the core. It's not that bad a job.