Best source for Festiva heater core?

[BigElCat]

My heater core seems to be emitting a little anti-freeze into my passenger compartment. I'm assuming I need a new heater core. It looks like they cost about $100 from Rockauto, O'Reilly, or eBay.

Does anybody have any suggestions?

What's the best deal on a new core? Will any cores from other cars interchange?

[bravekozak]

Why not take it in to a rad rebuild shop? They should be able to hook up test hoses, put it under water, pump air through it, find the leak and fix it on the spot (even if they have to recore it). They will pressure test and verify no leaks before giving it back to you. Has anyone ever seen how a rad or heater core is rebuilt? Half the price of going to an auto parts store.

[freshtiva]

Ill sell you one for $40

[BigElCat]

I'll keep that in mind, Fresh.

I was hoping to find new one, but so far I don't find anything that will interchange. I found a new Escort core $25. Aspire cores are less expensive. It looks like the suppliers have us Festiva owners by the nads on this part.

Why, oh why, can't we get a header either...for my '78 Mark I VW, I have my choice of stainless or painted?

I have a new radiator for the Festiva, because the original is creased from an accident. But the coolant seems to be coming from the core. I think I should do it all at once. Rad, core, and hoses.

[freshtiva]

BigEl if you decide to go with a used core LMK I'll give you one. I still owe you for the Edelbrock breather and the fine customizing you did to it.

[BigElCat]

I just looked at the Fanstiva progress. Good job on locating the air cleaner. The whole car looks awesome! I'll PM you about the heater core. Thanks.

[moz]

I removed and soldered mine myself. Wouldn't even bother buying a new one anymore

[BigElCat]

I know how to solder copper plumbing. How did you do the heater core?

1) Did you remove all the old solder? Is so...how?
2) What kind of solder did you use?
3) Did you use a propane torch?

[moz]

I used a mapp gas torch (propane will do also)
I used water safe solder (lead free) but most copper piping solders will do.
And I used laco flux.

You just need to be very gentle with the flame.

[BigElCat]

Should I just go over the old solder, or try to get it off?

[bravekozak]

I would recommend 50:50 leaded solder. It's easier to melt (lower ternary eutectic) and flows better than lead free solder. It's also less expensive. I only use lead free for potable water plumbing.

[defprun]

Thanks Brave, Ill be totally bringing mine to a rad shop. So I can have a spare.

[moz]

Yeah use leaded solder. I only used aquasafe because its what I had.
No need to remove old solder. Just make sure its clean before you apply heat