Coolant Leak from Heater Lines!

[JonnyRock]

My Z overheated on the way home last night, and spewed out most of it's coolant. I took it into our shop and put it up on the lift today to figure out what happened.

Looks like my heater core line is shot. It's fine when cold (because the thermostat isn't open) but as soon as it warms up coolant starts pouring out. I had a small leak (little dripping) there a few months ago, but tightening the clamps cleared that up. I was hoping to do the same this time (you can see I added a new clamp today) but it didn't work.

I have the replacement hoses from MSA and am willing to pull everything but I'd like your guys' advice. Have any of you replaced these hoses while everything is still in the car? What's the best way to do things?

Edited August 17, 2009 by JonnyRock

[JonnyRock]

Looking at my earlier threads, someone already gave me a tip on this. But if you have anymore, do tell.

[Arne]

I've done it in place, not too difficult, just messy. Remove all of the carpet and padding from the passenger floorpan before starting. You WILL make a mess in there.

As a side note, I'd strongly recommend replacing any of the old cloth-covered hoses still on the car while you're at it. Mine were so brittle that one actually crumbled when I went to remove it. And that can't be good...

[JonnyRock]

Thanks Arne, I'll be sure to do that. I believe that these are the last of the braided hoses in mine, except for the cam cover to air cleaner line.