Ok guys, Ive got a 97 dodge ram v6 3.9, my heater core is driving me nuts, something bout the smell of anti freeze just gets on your bad side. I am about to go buy the heater core for my truck to replace. Is there any other parts i need to get or does it bolt right up? The estimates I got are just to pricey. Are there any tricks that anyone has done to save time, effort, or any other advantage. If anyone has any input please let me have it.

 

I would replace the heater hoses that run from the block to the core. Cheap insurance in my book.

 

if you have ac. I would change the evap.core at the same time,also disconnect the battery before you start.and turn the heater **** to the 12 o'clock pos. this puts the blend door in a neutral position .

 

You should probably buy a flush kit too. Get a piece of heater hose and bypass the heater core then flush your entire cooling system, that way you will be able to get all that scale and crap out that could possibly clog your new heater core.

 

what exact bolts need to come out of the dash, can anyone explain the process, so i know i have the right idea

 

we just did that to my friends tbird, pain in the butt...had to rip out steering column, dash, carpet, and seats.

 

first download the service manual ,there's a link somewere in here. search for the merry christmas thread.one other thing you don't really have to remove the whole dash board just tilt it back enough to get the heater box out.

 

Don't know if the '97 is the same as my '01 but there are four nuts on the firewall in the engine compartment (7/16). One is towards the middle, two are on the bracket that holds thr PCM (next to the accumilator), and one under the PCM bracket(take off the two you can see and slide the PCM bracket to the right). Also when you remove the nut (10mm) for the grounding strap on top of the heater core there is another nut under the strap. The service manual is very helpful but it leaves out the "little" things. I just replaced my heater core and evaporator yesterday. Need anymore help let me know.

 

i need to replace mine also, its already in the shop getting a tranny overhaul, what did it set you back to do it yourself?