Antifreeze: leaky, leaky. Uh-oh...

[FoxBuddy]

So last weekend after a little show and shine, driving "peppy" on the way home, I took a cloverleaf around to get on the freeway. I was going quicker than average lets say and I felt some drips on my right foot. Right after I smelled antifreeze. It hadn't happened before and even though I haven't really had it out since, there is no real sign of any more.

http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o671/82GTforME/1986%20SVO/IMG_3300_zpsd5037367.jpg

My intention is not to jump the gun. When the core went on my '82 long ago, it was quick. Like all at once, steaming up inside immediately. I guess I am correct to assume that this would be the sign of a soon to fail core? I am not planning on driving it much more this year and will not be in the winter of course so I don't need the heat. I am inclined to just bypass the core for now. What are thoughts for doing this, the best place to do it and whether it is bad for possibly longer term?

[Laredo]

... I guess I am correct to assume that this would be the sign of a soon to fail core? ... Soon to fail? Nope, it's already failed.

[Laredo]

... I am inclined to just bypass the core for now. What are thoughts for doing this, the best place to do it and whether it is bad for possibly longer term?I know of multiple Fox bodies driving around with the heater core by-passed. Most common by-pass location is right at the core hoses, just jump across w/some flex hose (make sure it doesn't kink). But it will still stink like antifreeze 'til you get the old one out or flush it out with clean water (which will leak more on your carpet).

[Meotchh]

4 to 6 hours, several cuss words. a case of beer & then it's all done. Get to it!

[FoxBuddy]

4 to 6 hours, several cuss words. a case of beer & then it's all done. Get to it!

Then the planning is all done? :rolleyes:

[FoxBuddy]

I bought a straight 5/8" to 3/4" nylon barb adaptor from Napa (9911) and I am going to install that at the firewall today and worry about the core next year. I don't have the time to tear it apart this fall. This will suffice for a couple of late drives in the year and storage for the fall. A 90 degree one would have worked better but what do you expect to find on a Sunday?

[MikeFleming]

When you install the bypass piece, take your garden hose and flush out the heater core, from the engine compartment side, with fresh water. Maybe then blast one side with a low-pressure air line, say less than 15 PSIG. Then all that will be able to leak out is clean water aad not more gooey, sticky, smelly coolant.

Also make sure the AC evap/heater box drain hose/tube is clean to let the excess liquids drain out properly.

[FoxBuddy]

Wow, why did I decide to do this with the intercooler on? Not impossible, but much more difficult!

http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o671/82GTforME/1986%20SVO/IMG_3492_zpsa87c7419.jpg

I did not end up using the adaptor I bought. Both of the metal lines connecting to the engine are 5/8" OD. I removed both of the factory hoses and looped a hose to bypass the core.

http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o671/82GTforME/1986%20SVO/IMG_3497_zpsa688d898.jpg

I did not like the proximity to the turbo and exhaust so I wrapped it with cladding nearest them. Not 100% but it will suffice for now. Ran it until the fan came on; no leaks :)

Oh and they were both the original hoses on the car according to the NOS part number thread: http://www.svocop.com/forum/showthread.php?1490-NOS-Part-Numbers-and-Pictures&p=12697#post12697

Rubber Hose at heater core - right side - "U" shaped hose
Picture #8 - Part #E5ZZ-18472-H
Engineering number on part - E5ZH-18D334 -AB
Description - Non-Comp Prep (with A/C)
http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o671/82GTforME/1986%20SVO/IMG_3496_zpsc82a2c16.jpg

Rubber Hose - Heater core - left side
Picture #7 - Part #E5SZ-18472-B
Engineering number on part - E4SH-18472-AA AU
Description - Non-Comp Prep (with A/C)

http://i1337.photobucket.com/albums/o671/82GTforME/1986%20SVO/IMG_3495_zpsf5538ecc.jpg

[FoxBuddy]

I honestly believe none of this had been disturbed since original by the looks of it!