blueb
+1y
Well, got the dash loose and pulled up enough to get the heater core section out, and guess what...
the heater core is fine!
One of the rubber hose sections that connect the heater core to the extention tubes that pass through the firewall was leaking.
Mazda put the same hokey wire clamps on these as they did on the stuff under the hood.
I replaced them all with regular screw type hose clamps.
If you are needing to replace a leaky heater core, check these rubber connectors/clamps before ponying up the $ for a new heater core.
I can only imagine that these crappy clamps have made many a mortgage payment for the mechanic shops!
You can get the heater core section out without completely removing the dash from the truck, but you do have to remove all the mounting bolts to lift it up high enough that it is out of the way.
Small difference from completely removing it, but it does save you from pulling all the wiring free and then rerouting it on the install.
(RANT)
I'm still pissed at the Haynes manual! Everthing in there was for earlier trucks, pictures and all. Don't put 1972-1993 on the cover if it only cover half those years!
At least with the manual for my Capri I knew I was screwed.
First line for it:
Remove dash assembly from vehicle.
I'd rather pull a motor and trans than a dash.
(END RANT)
Aw well, back to work putting everthing back together.
Thanks for the advice.