Heater Matrix on C4

[Vettehead]

Can anyone help with how to replace the heater core on a late model C4. Started to get misty windows and now discovered passenger footwell is a bit damp.
No other leak until I took the car for an MOT and when I got back there was coolant leaking from just behind the front wheel on the passenger side.
Anyone who has already done this, please let me know if there is a simple way or of any problems that they came across.

[ZR1cliff]

Ive heard this is meant to be one of the hardest jobs you can do on a C4,sounds challenging!,welcome by the way

Let us know details if you decide to do the job yourself.

>> Edited by ZR1cliff on Saturday 16th April 19:18

[Gixer]

I did a matrix change on my old Supra years back. I really wouldn't want to do another again and I'm sure the vette would be just as hard - maybe harder. Have you tried laods of flushing followed by Radweald? I would go that route first - anything to avoid pulling the matrix. You could also bypass it to stop the leaks until you are ready to tackle the job as well.

BTW welcome to the forum

[Ruby Rag Top]

There is a pretty good step by step guide in the Chilten's manual (better than the one in the Haynes manual) Having said that, and being an ex mechanic, I don't think I would like to tackle it at home (then again I am getting lazy these days)
If you don't have access to one of these manuals, I could type out the piece for you. My typing speed is pretty slow so give me a while to do it, just let me know.

[Vettehead]

Thanks everyone. I'm really not looking forward to this. I think I'll probably get the local Yank garage to do it. Suspect the bill will be pretty steep as well. Will keep you posted on how it goes.

[LuS1fer]

I did this about 8 years ago on a 1985 C4. Basically, you had to take the top of the dash off and work your way down. I think. Maybe I did that and didn't need to as I think I had to remove the knee panel as well. Anyway, it's in the middle of the passenger side of the dash and you have to dismantle half the dash to get at it. I think I took the passenger seat out to give me more room. You can work out where it is from where the pipes come through the bulkhead.

Basically, it's a rad with two pipes that protrude through the bulkhead and it's held on by the usual metal strip and two bolts.I wish I could be more helpful. I recall thinking Chevy had built the car round it at the time but it is possible even though the later dash might be harder to get into.