Heater core change, D1.

[up2nogood]

Had a blown headgasket overpressurise my cooling system. Then the radiator cap did not do it's job to release it. So now my heater core has popped.

I have a nice new copper one to put in, but am unsure as to how to get the old one out and the new one in WITHOUT removing the entire dash.

Anyone done this job before? Just wondering what sort of a bitch it is..........

[RangingRover]

As far as I know, there are 2 procedures for changing a heater core without removing the dash.

1. Remove engine. Then cut large hole in firewall behind heater core.

OR

2. Cut hole in front of dash.

Seriously though, I'm 95% sure that its a physical impossibility to get the heater core out without unbolting the dash and hanging it forwards, unless you cut a few access holes etc, but even then it would be a struggle if it was possible at all.

[up2nogood]

Yup, that's what I was thinking too.

Oh well, I put it off for a few weeks and then I'll have to pull finger and get into it.......

[Philip A]

If the D1 you are looking at is an early one, ie with the old Rangie type dash (pre 94?), then it should be possible to remove the heater box without removing the dash top, assuming it is the same sub structure as a Rangie, which I think it does.
You have to pull all the stuff in the centre of the dash out, and drop the aircon vents. The airbox can then be worked out along the centre hump, after removing the bolts that hold the air box. You have to force up the dash pad.
I have only done a 77 Range rover but the principle should be the same.
Regards Philip A

[up2nogood]

The Disco dash is different to RR's.

Looking at it I reckon I'm going to have to pull the lot, but was hoping I would not.

Alas I fear my hopes have been dahed on the cruel rocks of reality.........

[cutfenders]

Looks like i might have 2 do the same.
Howja go?????????
Cheers Dean.

[300+]

I've done this and I removed the whole dash. I don't think that it can be done without doing this. If my memory is correct the vents in the centre of the dash are directly attached to the top of the heater box - it goes that far up.

Steve

[up2nogood]

Lokks that way.

I have delayed this job unitl we settled on our home. Neighbours in the townhouse complex we live in don't seem to like me pulling cars apart......

[300+]

It took me a day to pull the dash, change the core, tidy up the insane wiring (the previous owner had a TV which was remved before I got it) and refit.

It was all quite easy once you find all the screws holding the dash on. The haynes manual was helpful.

Cheers, Steve

[justinC]

If it is a D1 after 94, with the updated dash etc, then all you have to do is slide heater core out of RH side of heater box, first disconnecting the ally pipes and o ring clamps etc. It usually takes about 4 to 5 hours.

JC

[up2nogood]

No good, it's the earlier "pull everything out" model.....

But that's handy about the update model, although I don't know if I could cope with doing the job on both bloody cars!