Heater matrix removal.

[gengis]

Hi guys,

Can the heater matrix be withdrawn by removing the spring clips that hold the bottom plastic enclosure to the top, or does the whole enclosure need to be removed.  I need to remove the matrix due to a coolant leak.

[Ryan]

In the later cars this can be done without the whole heater box removed.  It does involve removing the center console that surrounds the brake lever and small console that is beneath the hvac controls.  I just popped the clips and dropped the lower half down enough to extract the core.  I removed the vents below the controls to ease installation of the core

The biggest pain for me was taking out the small screws in the center console that are hidden by the lower seat cushions.  Lots easier if the seats are out of the car.  In fact, the whole job would be easier without the seats in the way in hindsight.

R

[gengis]

Thanks for that Ryan, that's what I thought...but wasn't sure if there were any hidden screws or cables.  Watch this space...!

[gengis]

What a bear of a job!

The matrix wasn't leaking...just spillage from the valve.  while I was at it I also took out the main radiator for cleaning.  Filled both with petrol and steeped for an hour, then emptied out half the petrol then gave them a good shaking...repeated process twice.  Then cleaned with fresh water.  The main radiator was quite clean, but the heater matrix was restricted...probably 30% flow, which would explain a poor heater!  All built back up with fresh anti freeze, heater now working fine.

Thanks.