To remove the front heater core, begin by discharging the air conditioning system and disconnecting the negative battery cable. Drain the cooling system and, on Durango models, remove the inner fender splash shield from the right front wheel. Disconnect the heater hoses at the heater core and, on Dakota models, the refrigerant lines behind the accumulator. Remove the instrument panel and, for Dakota models, remove the three nuts holding the heater/air conditioning housing on the firewall. Disconnect any electrical connectors from the housing and remove it from the vehicle. Disassemble the housing to access and remove the heater core, replacing any worn seals. On Durango models, the heater core can be removed from the housing without removing it from the vehicle. Remove the housing bracket, heater core tube retaining bracket, and release the tube retaining clips before lifting out the heater core. When installing the new heater core, ensure all foam seals are in place, reassemble the housing if necessary, and reinstall all components in reverse order. Refill the cooling system, start the engine, and check for proper operation. Finally, have the air conditioning system evacuated, recharged, and leak-tested by a qualified technician. For the rear heater core, discharge the air conditioning system and disconnect the negative battery cable. Remove the nut securing the refrigerant line fitting under the vehicle and plug the lines. Pinch off and remove the heater hoses beneath the vehicle, then proceed to remove the right rear interior quarter panel and air ducts attached to the heater/air conditioning housing. Disconnect the electrical connectors from the blower motor resistor and other housing connectors, and remove the housing's mounting fasteners. Lift the housing upward, remove the blend door actuator, and carefully detach the foam seal from the heater core and air conditioning evaporator lines. Remove the bracket screws, pull out the heater core, and replace all O-rings with new ones suitable for air conditioning use and R-134a refrigerant, lubricating them with the appropriate refrigerant oil. Check the coolant level, replenishing as needed, and have the system evacuated, recharged, and leak-tested by a qualified technician during reassembly.
Posted by MoparPartsGiant Specialist