How To Unclog a Heater Core - EricTheCarGuy

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  • čas přidán 9. 01. 2010
  • Heater problems in the winter suck. But with a little diagnosis you can usually figure out the problem. Heater cores can get clogged from time to time and this video presents a solution to that problem should you have it. BTW, the product used in the video was CLR. If you KNOW you have a clogged heater core this procedure is a good thing to try to help fix the problem. However, if you are having heating problems I would suggest you check for air in the cooling system first before performing this procedure. The #1 cause of heating problems is actually air in the cooling system. More information on how to deal with HVAC issues can be found in this article I wrote.
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    Stay Dirty
    ETCG
    Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, it cannot guarantee against unauthorized modifications of this information, or improper use of this information. EricTheCarGuy assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. EricTheCarGuy recommends safe practices when working with power tools, automotive lifts, lifting tools, jack stands, electrical equipment, blunt instruments, chemicals, lubricants, or any other tools or equipment seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of EricTheCarGuy, no information contained in this video shall create any express or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not EricTheCarGuy.
  • Auta a dopravní prostředky

Komentáře • 2,8K

  • @labradormcgraw2409
    @labradormcgraw2409 Před 7 lety +114

    This is why Eric's so popular on CZcams. He doesn't edit his vids to exclude any mishaps; we get to see everything - including the mistakes we all make. It also adds humanity to the channel - huge respect to Eric The Car Guy!

    • @russellpicco647
      @russellpicco647 Před rokem +2

      Greatest way to blow out the little veins in that tiny itty bitty little heater core you know what I did Brother I literally ran a garden hose to my hot water heater cuz my garage is next to my house I Put A fitting on it and I had a valve on the hose where I could adjust the pressure I got it hot and then I screwed it to the heater hose and like you said I back flushed it backwards too and you wouldn't believe the rest that came out of there it was red literally red and it worked

    • @larryboyd7862
      @larryboyd7862 Před 6 měsíci

      My car blow hot heat through the defrost by the water but blow cold through the Vince what is it blow hot up top cold what do you think is the hose backwards going to the heater heater core

  • @cameronkrider5341
    @cameronkrider5341 Před 3 lety +12

    Thanks Eric. I have tried to reverse flush my heater core about 4 times over the last two years. I even used compressed air. It didn't work. I used your "certain product" and let it soak for about an hour before flushing out the heater core and now finally, after two very cold winters, I have HEAT once again.!!! Thanks for all your videos.

    • @eneb8937
      @eneb8937 Před 2 lety

      So what's the certain product? I keep watching and can't figure it out. Thanks

    • @cameronkrider5341
      @cameronkrider5341 Před 2 lety +6

      @@eneb8937 CLR

    • @eneb8937
      @eneb8937 Před 2 lety +1

      @@cameronkrider5341 thanks

  • @kenwilks6289
    @kenwilks6289 Před 7 lety +7

    Thanks for this Eric! My son's 2000 Mitsubishi Eclipse was blowing cold air. I could hear the blend door moving, so I figured it had to be the heater core. That little trick with compressed air worked like a charm. I used duct tape instead, but I split it in half, so it was about the width of electrical tape. It also had a 170F thermostat, so I switched it back the the OEM recommended 180F. We have heat now.

  • @covinaca5312
    @covinaca5312 Před 4 lety +4

    Ten years after this video was posted I used this method to fix my heater. I even spayed myself with dirty antifreeze. Thumbs up for saving me money !

  • @DENicholsAutoBravado
    @DENicholsAutoBravado Před 9 lety +41

    I came back to watch this video again. When I am worn out and tired, and feel that I have no need to learn I go back to an easy car subject, or to a video that I've already seen. You see, repetition is the key to learning. I love cars, so repetition doesn't bother me. EVERY time I come back and rewatch a video by this gentleman, I still manage to learn something. It isn't a waist of time like a rerun on television. :)
    Ericthecarguy is one of my mechanic mentors. There are few that I hold in as high as regard as him. It's impossible for any mechanic to make one video on one subject and cover everything there is to know. Eric is quite thorough, but I do enjoy my other mentors on the same subject, because every mechanic has a different way of fixing something. Even if it's mostly the same, it's still worth while.
    If you only know one way to fix something....what if it didn't work? Now you're stuck. All of my repairs that I've done before this video study, have dropped down to 1/3 of the time that I needed before. If it's a repair I do regularly even better.
    New jobs take 1/2 to 2/3 of the time that I took in the past.
    In fact, I took him so seriously on my first run through of this that I was oblivious to the rich humor in this video! :) So funny!

    • @DENicholsAutoBravado
      @DENicholsAutoBravado Před 9 lety +2

      *****
      I'm glad we're both inspired by good videos like this. And as for not laughing during the video...it's a frequent personal fault. I'm always working to see humor now and can make some customers laugh all day long because of this. lol
      My personal default is serious, but I'm glad I've learned to stretch. :) Glad I helped you laugh too.

    • @bizzysmiley
      @bizzysmiley Před 9 lety

      ***** u

    • @charleswilson4598
      @charleswilson4598 Před 6 lety +4

      I couldn't agree more. I started helping my Dad work on his cars in the late 40's and 50's. He was a very good mechanic, then started working on my own cars when I got older. No you tube in those days. In fact no computers either. When I started turning old you tube showed up and I have found it invaluable for looking at car repairs. I talked to a mechanic at a local repair shop ( a good one ) and those guys are aware of you tube and use it also. I replaced the intake manifold on my '01 F150 a while back and I never would have attempted it until I found this great video on you tube showing in detail what I needed to know.
      So, hurrah for Eric and guys like him who are willing to spend the time to show us how they do things.

  • @rondie.x53
    @rondie.x53 Před 5 lety +5

    Loved it. I am 65 and still fix my own car because of people like you . Thankyou

  • @tmartin67
    @tmartin67 Před 4 lety +5

    Thanks for the idea of using air to reverse flush the heater core. I used water before and had no luck. I used air, then filled with water and reverse flush with air for an entire gallon. Then the CLR, and reversed flush with air again, and did another gallon of water. I did this entire process three times. Then ran water reverse through so much easier. It just flowed! I now have heat in my car that I have not had for the entire three years I have owned the Jeep. Thanks again Eric!

  • @Xtian62
    @Xtian62 Před 5 lety +6

    Eric, you just saved me many hours of work, and potentially many hundreds of $. Thank you for this. My 21 year old Honda CR-V now has heat, where it didn't before. I built a little rig with a valve and a pressure regulator for the compressed air. Worked like a charm. Thanks again.

  • @wapman66
    @wapman66 Před 10 lety +37

    You are my new favorite subscription. Thanks for being informative and entertaining. Seeing that you don't mind showing the slightly embarrassing stuff, is a testament to your character... sir. So you know, I checked out this video because of a recommendation from Todd Harrison. And I will highly recommend your videos to anyone else that is looking for automotive tutorials... and stay dirty.

    • @Odaskills
      @Odaskills Před 4 lety

      Wow, thanks jave 2006 Chevy Equinox doing the same changed, pump, thermostat and heater sensor still no heat....

    • @vickialbanese2835
      @vickialbanese2835 Před 4 lety

      wapman66 Eric is informative and being that I am a woman it’s great to be able to watch and learn something I can do without a mans help if I need too. I’m 62 and love this stuff. I wish I had more tools though!

  • @ellenmcgarry6722
    @ellenmcgarry6722 Před 10 lety +33

    I love the fact the you are human not a guy who pretends to be perfect. You show that all does not always go perfectly...Thank you...I will continue to follow your posts!!

  • @deangeorge4982
    @deangeorge4982 Před 6 lety

    I have been on several DIY auto projects over the past 2 years. I haven't done this kind of work in 30 years. I have found that you have been the best at step by step instructions on the part(S) I am working on. I am going to try this on my 98 Honda Accord heater core as it barely puts out heat. I will post another comment once I am done. Thanks Car Guy!

  • @vanrijn1669
    @vanrijn1669 Před 3 lety +4

    Following your great site for years. Thanks for showing us shade tree DIYers how things get done. Appreciate the fact you show us how things can go wrong since most of us have this happen even with our best efforts to avoid it. Thanks.

  • @bigshortstack2929
    @bigshortstack2929 Před 5 lety +12

    Eric, instead or CLR, use Brake Clean. Disconnect the hoses from the core; connect a hose to the bottom core nipple that is long enough to hang down below the engine and into a catch container. Then, spray the Brake Clean into the other nipple until the core is pukeing out nothing but the brake cleaner. This may take a couple of cans of the cleaner, but is definitely "cleaner" to use and less messy. This technique is very good for cleaning out AC lines, cores, condensers, etc.

  • @tullycw6453
    @tullycw6453 Před 5 lety +5

    This video was perfect, informative and entertaining. This fixed my 1999 Grand Cherokees heat issue. I also got a face full of antifreeze! Thank you so much!

  • @jeffmorga7111
    @jeffmorga7111 Před 2 lety +1

    A friend's shop, he has these old style fixtures.. Air and water at the same time.. Turn valve for the water, squeeze valve for the air.. The old school way to flush the engine coolant.. When you get the system flushed there..
    It's flushed.. This guy ( in the video ) is doing GREAT WORK..
    Not everyone cares about their work.. I can tell.. He's one of the best..
    If you're in central DELAWARE
    Capital AIR conditioning and radiator..
    Dover DELAWARE..
    Another one of the very best..
    No short cuts, the REAL DEAL..

  • @shanereimer133
    @shanereimer133 Před 2 lety +4

    Eric did you expect 12 years ago to be as popular as you are now?
    Amazing video, excellent information, and you do great work.

  • @oftgood
    @oftgood Před 10 lety +57

    Thank you for showing your mistakes. It is nice to see the little hick-ups to avoid them. This is really helpful.

    • @freeheeler09
      @freeheeler09 Před 3 lety

      Yep, thanks for the humor and honesty! The bloopers make your video. Also, the rest of it was instructive.

  • @perry9251
    @perry9251 Před 3 lety +3

    Another great video from Eric. I enjoy his videos a lot. He is humble, honest and keeps it simple. And kind of funny. My opinion, he's the best on you tube.

  • @blackbear4903
    @blackbear4903 Před 4 měsíci +1

    Just tried this method today on my 1995 GMC Sierra. Just as disgusting as the video but I ended up with heat in the old girl! So glad I found this video. Had some pretty miserable mornings with frozen windshields. This was a game changer.

  • @667crash
    @667crash Před 4 lety

    Thanks to Eric The Car Guy!! I generally followed the process that you laid out with minor exceptions? I cut the supply and return heater hoses and bonded them together with a 5/8-inch splice so I could drive the car. I attempted to blow out the heater core and encountered significant resistance! OK!! I filled the heater core with CLR and waited 2-hours. I attached a female garden hose end to the return side hose leading to the heater core and drove to the local auto parts store where they have an exterior hose with 60-PSI water pressure. Turned on the water with a fairly instantaneous rush of water from the heater core that wasn't as dramatic as I had anticipated relative to color, but the volume was seriously dramatic. Put it all back together and how the heater works GREAT!! I seriously recommend following this guys general process. THANKS

  • @cindymorris913
    @cindymorris913 Před 9 lety +9

    i'm a single parent with no money to waste, i love the way you help compromise on tools and technique without spending alot. your videos are very easy to understand. thank you.

  • @sandramurphy9152
    @sandramurphy9152 Před 9 lety +3

    Thanks for the video, love how real they are and that you can laugh at yourself! Now we need to go and work on this!

  • @slock23
    @slock23 Před 5 lety

    This was such a help! I paid to have my cooling system flushed twice because my heat stopped working. Finally I did exactly these steps - I used a cooling system flushed and clean product from Advance Auto and let it sit in the heater core for 10 minutes. I blew out the product with a compressor catching it in my garden spray container. There were giant clumps of rust that blew out, and now my heat works for the first time in two years!!!

  • @jcblur311
    @jcblur311 Před rokem +1

    You the man Eric. I had no heat in my ride for the last two winters. Granted I'm in a southern part of the country where it almost never snows, and it gets below freezing maybe 30 days out of the year, but it still sucked having to bundle up and wear winter gloves when driving. I was just about to bite the bullet and buy/install a new heater core, when I came across this video. Thanks man. Keep up the great work.

  • @TuffGirlBuilder
    @TuffGirlBuilder Před 10 lety +11

    I am always inspired to do my own diagnostics & maintenance after your detailed tutorials. Keep it up, appreciated!

  • @jdrs4214
    @jdrs4214 Před 8 lety +8

    Eric, I have the highest respect for you man!!!! Thank you!!!!

  • @Whitewolf1023
    @Whitewolf1023 Před 4 lety +2

    Thanks for this video, very helpful. I haven't tried cleaning my heater core yet, but will definitely get after it at my earliest convenience. I'll email you with additional questions, thanks again!

  • @andrewholtsclaw7822
    @andrewholtsclaw7822 Před 5 lety +5

    I know this is a comment on an old video, but I love the idea of spraying silicon on the hose to help the clamps. Brilliant! Also, safety glasses Eric; safety glasses. Getting that stuff in the eyes is NOT FUN. It only took me one time, and now I won't touch a potentially splashing fluid without 'em.

  • @allianceofsteel
    @allianceofsteel Před 9 lety +25

    I've personally developed a method for using CLR to "rott" out cooling systems. I've done it on several with amazing results, I drain everything out, flush with water until you only have water in it, fill it up with a jug of clr, top it off distilled water, drive it around a couple days, drain it, flush it completely out and I do mean completely out, you don't want any clr left in the system when you are done, refill with distilled water and antifreeze. You might ask me why distilled water, well I started using it because the water here is so mineralized, I was changing out thermostats that literally had rocks growing on them from the mineral content of the water... that stuff can block wherever the coolant slows down or cools down in the system. Over kill but... how I do it and have done it for ages now. Awesome video, I've had my share of mouthfuls, facefuls, hairfuls of antifreeze.... *thumbs up*

    • @Krankie_V
      @Krankie_V Před 9 lety +3

      Not to mention the chlorine in most municipal water supplies has a tendency to accelerate corrosion in cooling systems. Distilled water is always a good idea

    • @richardgonzales3226
      @richardgonzales3226 Před 6 lety +4

      You don't want CLR going threw your coolant system I wouldn't run it through the whole system just heater core

    • @nicholas8nj
      @nicholas8nj Před 5 lety

      Thanks for the advice. I didn't flush out engine core but tried to squeeze the hose to get rid of bubbles

    • @barryellis6663
      @barryellis6663 Před 5 lety

      I know what you mean a out hard water. I live in Oklahoma and some of these small towns have rocks coming out of their faucets.

  • @pdubs2k10
    @pdubs2k10 Před 10 lety +5

    HAHAHAHA! Eric...you rock! Love this video! Actually...I am having the EXACT same problem as described in my 2001 Caravan SE (Shorty). This past weekend, I replaced the thermostat (thinking that was the problem) and did a flush and fill. Of course (my luck), that didn't fix it. So I determined with the help of my buddy (since I'm more of a techy guy and not a mechanic) that the problem was most likely a blockage in the heater core. I was scared to even attempt this and had succumbed to just hiring out, as my dad always did. After watching this....I think I can handle it (under the close eye and guidance of my buddy). Thanks for doing what you do!

  • @amazingmrtitts
    @amazingmrtitts Před 4 lety +1

    Loved this video, I didn’t even think about cleaning the heater core. I’m gonna try this, cause changing the core in an 85 Toyota is a half day job and it’s 18 degrees outside. Thanks for taking the time to share.

  • @timothytate3968
    @timothytate3968 Před rokem +1

    Thanks Eric for putting this video out to show how to flush out a heater core. My heater is blowing out cold air and everything is working. But the top heater hose is cool to the touch but the bottom heater core is hot so that little tip that you gave as an indication that your heater core is plugged up is a great tip so that explains to me that I may need to flush my heater core out. And then see if I get hot heat coming blowing through my heat vents. Again thanks for putting this video out you gave really good tips.

  • @JohnDoe-uq3mx
    @JohnDoe-uq3mx Před 7 lety +4

    Had my own temporary fix in early January weather when temps were near zero. Did it when no air compressor, heated garage, or garden hose were available. Switched the inlet and outlet hoses in reverse, and it was good for about a month and a half until the weather started to break.

    • @dondesnoo1771
      @dondesnoo1771 Před 6 lety

      John Doe used to reverse each year seemed to work easy remedy good idea to flush too entire system😎

  • @reddwarf60
    @reddwarf60 Před 6 lety +22

    Thanks for the vid Eric! Suggestion: Get an inexpensive ball valve with a 90 degree throw lever (like you probably have plumbed elsewhere in your shop air system) and screw an air hose QD fitting in one end and an appropriately-sized hose (singe barb) fitting in the other to create a "friendlier" throttle for your compressed air.
    Also: On later model cars a clogged cabin air filter can greatly reduce air flow over the heater core or AC evaporator, significantly diminishing the system output into the cabin. Enough that it can throw off the pressure reading on your AC manifold gauge set.
    Stay Dirty indeed!

  • @warriorrod2382
    @warriorrod2382 Před 5 lety

    Worked like a charm, heat once again, 2007 Mini Cooper r56 s. Unhooked the heater core hoses from the thermostat housing. Bleeding the system after a flush is very important. Thanks for the third time!

  • @7jack7
    @7jack7 Před 6 lety +7

    Thanks for the great vid. You might try incorporating a blow gun into the operation. It allows a lot more control of the air over a pair of vice grips. Shouldn't be too hard to adapt it to the heater hose.

  • @MiltonNGreeneIII
    @MiltonNGreeneIII Před 6 lety +6

    Great video. Thanks for keeping it real. It's not always done flawlessly. Also, thanks for caring about the environment.

  • @traciemahoney6989
    @traciemahoney6989 Před 8 lety +7

    You're ideas as usual are VERY helpful, but I did LMFAO!
    Thank you for leaving that in. I don't feel like such an idiot knowing it happens to other mechanics too! Keep 'em coming!!

  • @miclfolu2
    @miclfolu2 Před 6 lety

    Eric you save the day again! As many videos I have seen flushing out a heater core process. I've sound your process seems to be a lot more practical and less time consuming then all the videos I have seen..
    Thanks again for all your help.

    • @miclfolu2
      @miclfolu2 Před 6 lety

      Sorry about that had (Never Correct) on.. Found..

    • @stanmorton8975
      @stanmorton8975 Před 7 měsíci

      we knew what you meant....@@miclfolu2

  • @dulynoted2427
    @dulynoted2427 Před 6 lety +2

    You got my thumbs up for good work ethics. Thank you for keeping our water ways free of toxic chemicals!

  • @tweeter05ify
    @tweeter05ify Před 2 lety +28

    This guy is legit 100% all the BS plus the knowledge and level headed thank you for sharing these videos and info with all of us really appreciate it 👍

  • @pyite100
    @pyite100 Před 9 lety +3

    Thank you for this video. I was able to unclog my heater core and now I have heat again!! And the total cost was $0 (assuming my time is worth $0)

  • @tworthit8265
    @tworthit8265 Před 5 lety +1

    Love the videos. Very down to earth, practical, logical, and a little humor. I know it takes time to make vids. Appreciate it.

  • @eddienolan4631
    @eddienolan4631 Před 6 lety +1

    Eddie NolanThank you very much Eric for helping me as well as others and explaining detailed repair. I had the same problem with my son’s car. I have used your advice many times resolving problems and thanks again.

  • @HeavyChevyAZ105
    @HeavyChevyAZ105 Před 7 lety +4

    DUDE!!! thank you so much! I just tried this on my 01 Chevy Tahoe. it absolutely works now my heater is blowing hot. thank you so much I was about to replace the heater core. and on my model of truck you have to remove the entire Dash to get to it thank God for you and this video saving me two days work!!

  • @jackiechan6460
    @jackiechan6460 Před 7 lety +34

    My cat died because it drank coolant. My older brother was working on his car, dropped a bunch of coolant on the ground.
    I didn't think anything of it besides of how it may stain or how messy it looked. At that point I knew nothing about cars.
    Later that day I find my beloved cat dead in the yard. Her eyes hazed over with a silver color. In disbelief I shook her around a bit, trying to get her to move. She didn't.
    Found a shovel, carried her over, dug a hole, and buried her.
    Don't let this happen to your animals.
    I got pretty emotional writing this. Her name was Grimlin. Had a very unique meow and flatish head. Extremely friendly and loyal. Which is strange for a cat it seems. Never ran from me.
    I called her hamburger head because of how flat her head was, and she used to nap with me on warm sunny days. I used to wake up to her licking my head which turned a small part of my hair into a cowlick.
    I miss my cat now.

    • @kjamison5951
      @kjamison5951 Před 5 lety +2

      JacksTip It’s the sweet taste that animals pick up. That’s a crying shame. I am sorry to hear about your loss. We have lost several cats over the years to old age. It’s still a huge wrench on your emotions because you really connect with them. Keep hold of the happy memories to give you strength.

    • @bertdemeule4802
      @bertdemeule4802 Před 5 lety

      JacksTip 1

    • @bertdemeule4802
      @bertdemeule4802 Před 5 lety

      MatchstalkMa

    • @Laggin6
      @Laggin6 Před 5 lety +2

      My condolences to you. How sad to lose a pet that way.

    • @benjaminjohnson8431
      @benjaminjohnson8431 Před 5 lety +1

      Lost a pet to antifreeze also. But was a neighbor. Who knows whether it was intentional.

  • @willlee2332
    @willlee2332 Před 8 měsíci

    I thought about doing this because replacing the heater core in a 2009 Ford Explorer is a HUGE undertaking and mine didn't leak. I'm glad Eric did it because it made me think it would work - and it DID! I would have gotten rid of the car before replacing the heater core, so Eric saved my car - LOL! Thanks for posting this.

  • @Lisa-ub6zl
    @Lisa-ub6zl Před 2 lety +1

    Thanks so much! I was sitting here cold watching your video and decided to just kick it one time to see if I would get heat anyway and dang if it didn't work! I was so glad to feel some heat on me!

  • @anomysafad803
    @anomysafad803 Před 8 lety +76

    Big point of this video is change your dam anti freeze, so you don't gunk up your heater core! Preventive maintenance.

    • @python178
      @python178 Před 8 lety +2

      +anomy safad exactly

    • @mohammedalhaiby7038
      @mohammedalhaiby7038 Před 8 lety

      +Bruce B فات

    • @8jallin97
      @8jallin97 Před 8 lety +2

      +anomy safad I have no worries, I use water.

    • @TheBikemaster94
      @TheBikemaster94 Před 8 lety +4

      I used sealant to fix the water pump leax and it clogged the heater core.

    • @johnferguson7235
      @johnferguson7235 Před 8 lety

      +TheBikemaster94 You must have tried using a very large amount of sealant. There shouldn't be a great problem sealing the pump using the correct gasket and torquing the bolt to the correct spec. Water pumps are cheap. I bet that you will buy one next time. Sorry to hear that you made a boo boo and messed up your car.

  • @ChellyinCali25
    @ChellyinCali25 Před 10 lety +11

    Hello Eric!!!! This has been the most useful video I have watched on youtube. I have gone three winters now with no heater because the shop I took my car into said that flushing my heater core did not work and that I would need to replace the heater core. I came across your video and your steps made it look pretty easy so decided I could try this before taking it in.. and it worked! Thank you =]

    • @princeboateng694
      @princeboateng694 Před 6 lety +3

      Chelly Sohn do not trust a fucking mechanic you don't know. Like you said they said that they flushed the heater core and it did not work so they can buy you and a new heater core and replace it and I know that shut is expensive since they gotta pull out almost your whole dash in the front. They wanna make a quick buck from people that don't know. I went to pep boys for a wheel alignment they came out with a list of bs but the most funny one was they said I needed new brake pads and rotors in order for them to do the alignment funny because I myself changed those items two months before taking my car there for the alignment. Crooks I tell you.

    • @TheAttacker732
      @TheAttacker732 Před 4 lety

      @@princeboateng694 The mechanic I had flush my coolant & replace my thermostat told me I needed a new heater core, (at one point it was a bit low on coolant, and I think the universal that my dad put in permanently gunked it) but his shop is too small to do it. (My Ram 1500 barely fit through the door for his 2 bay garage, small shop) However, he also didn't know any shops with enough floor room to do it either.
      Basically, "Look, you need it done, but you're on your own finding someone who can do it."

  • @miked8234
    @miked8234 Před 6 lety

    I followed his instructions and it worked. I cut the heater hose up by the core and hooked up a compressor that I rented from Home Depot for $30. I diluted the CLR just a little before pouring it in. I spliced the hose back together using a 5/8" dual plastic connector I bought from Pep Boys. It was a messy job, but the car has great heat and the heater core isn't leaking. I think it all cost me $80. The shops said I may have needed a new heater core installed for $1,000. I'm happy.

  • @neilperko8882
    @neilperko8882 Před 7 lety

    thanks for sharing this.. fixed mine thanks to this video. I probably would have done the dreadful job of changing the heater core if I hadn't learned about this. you saved me a LOT of time. thanks

  • @danseman1
    @danseman1 Před 10 lety +18

    Entertaining video. The coolant splash was funny. We've all had similar experiences. That product, I believe CRC?? may be caustic??..Simple household white vinegar works great for cleaning a variety of things and won't harm you. And it's cheaper.

    • @zackman191
      @zackman191 Před 10 lety +4

      CLR

    • @HumboldtNonProfit
      @HumboldtNonProfit Před 5 lety

      I believe the vinegar needs to be heated to work. It is a chemical reaction combined with the heat that cleans. There was no heat in this method so the vinegar wouldn't work. I am not sure about the CLR, I have two bottles, but am afraid of using it. It turns into a very thick white cream that looks like it would be difficult to flush out? Also may be really bad for aluminum parts...

    • @johnquinones1854
      @johnquinones1854 Před 5 lety

      Breakin

    • @garrydonnelly6433
      @garrydonnelly6433 Před 3 lety

      @@HumboldtNonProfit CLR will damage aluminium so don't use hit here.

    • @cheeko_914
      @cheeko_914 Před 2 lety

      CRC is a brand

  • @gomeztimothy11
    @gomeztimothy11 Před 5 lety +3

    Suggestion? Wouldn't a pressure regulator help with throttling the air and be a little safer to control? Also, pumps only put out about 10 lbs of pressure, give or take, so it would be advisable to control the amount if air to around that pressure.

  • @D6Spanky
    @D6Spanky Před 5 lety

    🤣🤣🤣 I think this is my new favorite Eric the Car Guy video! Love it!

  • @chrissibennett3931
    @chrissibennett3931 Před 2 lety

    Love you Eric! You don't bullshit and you get it figured out. My ex gave our daughter his 02 Honda Accord and he had put head gasket sealant and pepper in the radiator, obviously, later on, it's all plugged up. I was going to buy a new heater core and replace it for her, because he had flushed it with just water a while back, but I'm going to try this to see if I can't save it before buying a new one. Love your resourcefulness! Thanx again :)

  • @peterdiamant164
    @peterdiamant164 Před 10 lety +5

    Hey Eric, you can also use a valve stem and an air chuck to blow out the heater core. Diamant Motors, Toronto Canada.

  • @hectordeanda9133
    @hectordeanda9133 Před 4 lety +4

    Would you recommend flushing the whole cooling system with CLR if there’s rust throughout the cooling system? Any reprocussions?

  • @juliantitian1623
    @juliantitian1623 Před 2 lety

    Videos are a bit long but man they’re worth it, I learn something new on every one. My guy!

  • @kevinrheault791
    @kevinrheault791 Před 6 lety

    I know you're like a CZcams celebrity and probably don't read your comments because your really busy. But I thought I had to stop and say thank you Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I am mechanically inclined more or less a backyard mechanic. However your videos are much more informative and straight to the point. And you give advice on how to make it easier and quicker. Your videos have helped me many times in the past few years. They are all much better then the rest you click on. For that I thank you for all the money you saved me and my friends for that matter. You truly are proof that working smarter not harder is the way to go. Your videos have helped me not work harder for a few years now so thank you. From my family to yours Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

  • @stacimcclendon3907
    @stacimcclendon3907 Před 7 lety +6

    I've got to change my heater core...but this was hilarious to watch! Thanks!

    • @flinch622
      @flinch622 Před 4 lety

      Hope it went well. My comment is way late, but every once in a while hoses can delaminate internally [if they are multi layer] and block their own flow. A leak or complete failure usually is right behind such an event since mechanical structure is weak, and blisters sometimes form in the outer jacket. It's kind of rare, but since hoses are relatively cheap... I check them first. An internal flap may behave like a check valve when testing: flows ok one way, but not the other. Air works for testing, but you need to regulate pressure down to near normal operating pressures. Speaking of regulators, I hope one of Eric's friends buys him one for christmas - 120psi gives a faceful (or worse) when things are opened up. Nothing like a faceful when it's winter...

  • @sonper22
    @sonper22 Před 9 lety +20

    love your videos but this one just made me laugh... mean that in a good way Eric use your videos aaaalot thanks... had a good laugh. :):)

    • @juliejcoats2460
      @juliejcoats2460 Před 3 lety

      Your video was very informative & really quite entertaining & that's a plus..
      Being cute too is a definitely another plus lol
      Thank You I haven't had any Heat in my Dodge Dakota for over a month..So I will try this tomorrow..

    • @RocknWithRobin
      @RocknWithRobin Před 3 lety

      Yes

  • @pyro5050
    @pyro5050 Před 3 lety

    been fighting with a POS Dodge Journey 2012 that lost all heat to passenger side.
    did a water flush, checked all blend doors, actuator motors ect.
    was literally looking on how to replace a heater core when i popped into here, and skipped part of the video, heard ya say "this 'product'" and thought "shit, i got some of that sitting in storage. whats another 30 min of flushing shit out?"
    sure as shit, with air, lots of foam, water after and topped with coolant, burped the system *again* it appears i have heat again. it would appear something is stuck in the heater core, gunking it up. i dont want to replace it, cause dodge hates people.
    Thanks so much! you literally saved me a few hundred bucks and a few dozen hours and taking apart the entire bloody dash of the SUV...
    Thank you so much!

  • @jasonhunting7443
    @jasonhunting7443 Před rokem

    Took my 2017 in for the same problem and they quoted me 1900.00 to replace the core. Going to try this fix next weekend. Thanks for this!

  • @ryanabalos1163
    @ryanabalos1163 Před 5 lety +7

    "stay dirty, work clean!" I like that.
    Ryan A

  • @Liberty4Ever
    @Liberty4Ever Před 7 lety +10

    Most cooling systems run at 15 psi and the heater core won't be rated for much more than that so I would be very careful about using an air compressor unless I had a regulator set to perhaps 25 psi or less which isn't much air pressure. I would just flush it with a garden hose running very slowly. There are flush kits for that. There's also a radiator flushing chemical for $8 that I would use instead of CLR which could corrode the inside of the heater core and cause more problems later.

  • @tomprice9527
    @tomprice9527 Před 3 lety

    The best how too I have ever watched .
    Really explained what he was talking about

  • @flyby1807
    @flyby1807 Před 4 lety +1

    Thanks Eric, I had the same idea of using air pressure instead of water pressure on my Corolla but wasn't 100% sure. Now that I saw your video, I am more incouraged to give it a try. Thanks for all your videos. They have helped me a great deal.

  • @bmfilmnut
    @bmfilmnut Před 5 lety +3

    Another excellent video. In my opinion, you have some of the best auto repair videos on CZcams but that's why I''m surprised about a couple things in this video. First, I'm suprised that you turned the air on full blast rather than slowly cranked up the pressure. And you did that more than once. Second, I know you are big on safety but this is an instance where safety glasses were important. I confess that I rarely wear safety glasses when working on cars and truck but I would have in this case. Third, I'm not sure why you often don't show a product name. You can't be sued. It's not a copyright issue. The information would be useful to your viewers and the manufacturer of the product would be glad that you used it. My only guess is that maybe you don't want to take responsibility if it goes bad. In this case, it looked like you were using CLR. I'm wondering if a dilute mixture of vinegar would work. I use it to flush cooling systems before replacing coolant.
    Other than those things, I wish I had seen this video years ago when I had a plugged heater core in a minivan. The factory procedure was horrendous and involved removing the entire dashboard, etc. That would be necessary with that car if it was leaking but it was just clogged. I'll file your method in my brain for future reference.
    Thanks much and thanks for posting these helpful videos.

  • @KiranTaker270
    @KiranTaker270 Před 9 lety +4

    4:45 Eric's reaction XD

  • @charleswilson4598
    @charleswilson4598 Před 6 lety +1

    Good video as always. I don't have a very big air compressor but I think after seeing this video I would just adjust the line pressure to low pressure to begin with and then adjust up as necessary.

  • @activemonkey7325
    @activemonkey7325 Před 4 lety

    Thanks Eric, I just did this on my 2001 Jeep WJ and holy hell does it blow some heat now. Thank you for posting the video!

  • @asian1erTheDestroyer
    @asian1erTheDestroyer Před 8 lety +19

    4:45 money shot lol

  • @TimSaundersC4
    @TimSaundersC4 Před 10 lety +4

    Eric great video. I had my mechanic do the same thing to my Chevrolet uplander and now I have heat. One question is that they told me white stuff came out off the heater core. What could that be?

    • @doncox2146
      @doncox2146 Před 4 lety

      Calcium and lime deposits from hard water

    • @dewaynemaiden
      @dewaynemaiden Před 4 lety

      @@doncox2146 from using tap water with the antifreeze instead of distilled water

  • @xjorvis
    @xjorvis Před 5 lety +1

    Perfect Eric thank you I followed your guide it fixed my heater issue in my 98 jeep Cherokee thank you

  • @wilphil590
    @wilphil590 Před 3 lety +2

    Probably the best car fix video on youtube...lol

  • @danielalien
    @danielalien Před 9 lety +11

    Lol at carefully using the spill-free funnel after previously blasting the entire engine bay with gunky anti-freeze :P

    • @2028end
      @2028end Před 5 lety +2

      danielalien, hahahah ... that's what I was thinking too! The whole engine looked like a total mess and we're carefully using a spill free funnel. hahahaha

  • @stevenhorn8682
    @stevenhorn8682 Před 4 lety +4

    When I turn on my heat, it comes out hot on the left side and cool on the right. When I switch to the AC the cold comes out on the right side and cool on the left. Would this be a heater core problem. I checked the actuator and it is working right. I don't have a duel system. Just one knob for the fan, one for the heat and cold and one for the different positions. I did like your video and have now subscribed. Very informative

    • @brianjirish
      @brianjirish Před 4 lety

      I'm having the same problem. I'm hopping someone with knowledge can pin-point this for us.

    • @scarface-39
      @scarface-39 Před 4 lety

      I know you said the actuator works but it sounds like a blend door issue maybe not opening or closing all the way?

    • @brianjirish
      @brianjirish Před 4 lety +1

      @@scarface-39 it was actually one of my actuator. I ended up just replacing all 4 of them. 3 of the 4 are right behind climate control but the 4th one was the hardest. I had to remove the whole dash. It was behind and up above the glove box(reciprocating blend door).

    • @scarface-39
      @scarface-39 Před 4 lety

      brianjirish Glad you got it fixed those things are a pain in the you know what sometimes!

  • @prouddaddyme6989
    @prouddaddyme6989 Před 5 lety

    Dude awesome video great show of how the antifreeze across the face was...... That was priceless man. You should be up for an Oscar nomination

  • @GetRealBaby
    @GetRealBaby Před 5 lety

    Thanks! I like real videos that help explain the right and wrong ways things may go. Thanks again!

  • @danneathery3612
    @danneathery3612 Před 10 lety +82

    You make a good informative video, but I need to make a point...
    As a lot of garage & shade tree do it yourselfers are bound to try this, let's not forget SAFETY. Using compressed air without safety glasses is a serious issue. The fact that you are potentially pushing a de-rusting chemical (usually these flushing compounds contain some form of Oxalic acid) at pressure warrants even a step further... full goggles and a face shield. The fact that even you, as an eperienced tecnician, didn't foresee adequately venting the discharge bottle for the volume/pressure of air used, thus blowing this hazardous liquid in your face illustrates my point. A picture is worth a thousand words. You got lucky. It's chuckle funny-funny on TV, but NOT from the ER when they are flushing your eyes out from chemical burn or picking out minute imbedded rust particles with tweezers and a magnet... then comes the dye check for the aluminum residues. MAYBE your sight won't be impaired. I am a Graduate of Skyline Automotive Technology program, a State of Ca. Cert. Journeyman Fleet Equipment Mechanic, fully ASE certified, and have 35+years in the auto/truck/ equipment trade... I offer this advice through experience, not to be disrespectful or flippent. Your methods are sound, but in my time I've watched many people injured by the simplest of oversights. I hope to retire with all my parts intact. So far, so good knock on wood and always vigilant. To EVERYONE... always stop for a second to walk through each next step in your head and ask "what if ?... even from something as simple as repositioning to pull a wrench vs. pushing. Thanks for the ear folks !

    • @joshcombs7831
      @joshcombs7831 Před 6 lety +6

      Dan Neathery lighten up Francis...

    • @TheDickMan_
      @TheDickMan_ Před 6 lety +7

      Lol always that fuckin nerd

    • @Clare.1985
      @Clare.1985 Před 6 lety +16

      I know a lot of you are laughing at this guy for saying it and until I started welding I would have been right there with you. I gotta say though. Metal in the eyes is NOT a fun experiment. Neither is any kind of burn. I think i'd rather be pistol whipped than go through that again. Also I don't know about you guys but I really REALLY like being able to see. I'm sure you're buddies would laugh at you doing something simple with a full face shield looking like bill nye the science guy but at least when you're done you can see them laughing at you. Just saying.

    • @Clare.1985
      @Clare.1985 Před 6 lety +3

      1.5 inches if it's warm out.

    • @TheDickMan_
      @TheDickMan_ Před 6 lety +1

      Josh Clare call me when youre at least a 6

  • @MrPhotodoc
    @MrPhotodoc Před 5 lety +5

    "David's Farm". Now THAT is old. I think he got removed from YT for some "issues".

  • @michaeltyniec7010
    @michaeltyniec7010 Před 3 lety

    Worked like a charm on my Grand Cherokee. I tried to minimize the mess when using the air compressor - I failed. HAHAHAHA. Thank you so much for your awesome videos!

  • @lindseyjones4290
    @lindseyjones4290 Před 5 lety

    Thanks Eric. I have a 4x4 Mitsubishi Challenger who's heat has stopped. I will definitely be working with your method of flushing the core.

  • @pennypug97
    @pennypug97 Před 7 lety +3

    I put CLR in my 2000 Ford Ranger heater core and let it sit for an hour. flushed it out a dozen times and hooked up a garden hose which ran freely. still very little Heat

    • @Persian5word
      @Persian5word Před 7 lety

      make sure you bleed all the air out of the system. each car has bleeder point.
      also it might be the case that heater control valve doesn't allow full flow even tho is fully open

    • @sgtpeeper68
      @sgtpeeper68 Před 7 lety +3

      Does your Ranger have a temperature gauge? Have you verified it reaches operating temp after running for a sufficient amount of time? If it doesn't, it might be your thermostat is stuck open. That will cause a reduction in heat output.

    • @pt324157
      @pt324157 Před 5 lety +1

      @@Persian5word not every car has a bleeder valve for the coolant usually u need to leave the radiator cap off and warm up the engine till the thermostat opens

  • @FargenDog
    @FargenDog Před 10 lety +5

    .... and this is why we wear safety goggles right Eric?

  • @deangeorge4982
    @deangeorge4982 Před 5 lety

    I did my 98 honda heater core flush using your youtube video. I am glad I did and it works now. Thanks.

  • @ASSASYN187
    @ASSASYN187 Před 3 lety +1

    keeping bloopers in this made me watch all the way through even though I knew the process already lol

  • @druno82
    @druno82 Před 9 lety +9

    Jeep with a clogged heater core. Imagine that :)

  • @ashtonmurch2142
    @ashtonmurch2142 Před 6 lety +30

    "Tastes like maple syrup" .....*dies*

    • @fm00078
      @fm00078 Před 4 lety +1

      THAT Epitaph will be on his Tombstone. 💀

    • @Obeijin
      @Obeijin Před 4 lety

      Yes , it can kill ...

  • @isaacorozco8178
    @isaacorozco8178 Před 7 lety +2

    thank u, id been having a not so good day until I saw this video.sorry for what happened but it made my day

  • @Stuffie0117
    @Stuffie0117 Před 7 lety +1

    I have been having issues with my liberty and I'm gonna try this soon and see if I have my heat for winter back

  • @Boss-ve8rl
    @Boss-ve8rl Před 4 lety +3

    2019 and the car markers still refuse to make the heater system easier to get to and work on

  • @hectorcontreras6356
    @hectorcontreras6356 Před 3 lety +3

    key takeaway, “try not to damage the hoes” 3:07 and or “hurt them...that much” 4:02

  • @BulletProofBreast
    @BulletProofBreast Před 4 lety

    I'm impressed because I did almost all of these steps myself without looking anything up first (even the flooring). Only thing I didn't think of was to reverse flow (kinda important)

  • @craigburris2133
    @craigburris2133 Před 4 lety

    You are the man!!! This worked great and now our PT Cruiser has heat again. Thanks for the great video. Well Done!!!

  • @BigMack2020
    @BigMack2020 Před 9 lety +3

    That product is Cough Cough CRL cleaner

  • @halflife103
    @halflife103 Před 8 lety +2

    should put an anotation perhaps mentioning that you do not endorse davidsfarm... especailly now.

  • @jakdalton7342
    @jakdalton7342 Před rokem

    1st video I've seen of you w/out the beard! Going back 13 yrs ago, I can tell you have learned a lot 😊. Thanks for showing us the mistakes we coukd have made. Hope things are going well for you in 2023!

  • @goodlowe6532
    @goodlowe6532 Před 2 lety

    Lol I feel much better now I was using water to flush mine today and literally tried using everything in the house to make the connection. Soo much water all over my car port. Love the realness of ur vids man! 😂