QuestionI have a 1996 Dodge Grand Caravan with a 3.3 engine. I am smelling anti-freeze in the van through the vents. I was told it is likely a leak in the heater core. 209000 mi on van. Where is the heater core located and is it something I can change myself?
AnswerHEATER CORE
REMOVAL
Drain coolant system.
Remove left side lower column cover.
Remove steering column assembly. Refer to Steering for service procedure.
Remove ABS module, bracket and wiring ABS MODULE
Remove I/P to body harness interconnect and bracket Interconnect And Bracket
Remove lower silencer boot at base of steering shaft Lower Silencer Boot
Pinch off heater lines under the hood.
Remove heater core cover. Insert a small amount of towels under the heater core tubes. Remove heater core plate and tubes Heater Core Plate And Tubes
Depress heater core retaining clips Depress Clips
Pull up on accelerator pedal and slide heater core past Accelerator Pedal
Depress brake pedal Brake Pedal and remove heater core from HVAC housing.
INSTALLATION
For installation, reverse the above procedures. Install screws to retain heater core in housing. Replace heater core tube inlet O-rings. Tighten heater core tube retaining plate to 3 ± 1 N·m (27 ± 9 in. lbs.) torque.
