Heater core question

[gxnos]

I have an 86GT and I am now going on my 3rd heater core. Cheap autozone replacement one lasted about a year. I am seriously considering cutting a hole in the firewall to make access directly to it. I can make a nice aluminum plate at work to cover up the hole and run the new lines through. What do you guys think about this whole idea? Do you see me running into any other problems doing this?

DREADING pull the dash apart...

 

[fiveohwblow]

I would suggest going Ford OEM and don't worry about it for another 10 years

 

[RatStang]

... and reusing the in-line flow restrictor (if you're not already).

 

[gxnos]

yeah i think you're right. i want to pull my dash apart to pull out the evaporator anyways. thanks for the input. has everybody heard of somebody doing this?

 

[67coupe]

Without question, get the OEM core from the dealer. I paid $80 - $100 for mine (can't remember). It's Valeo piece, which is good quality. Big supplier for OEM heat exchangers.

I heard/read way too many horror stories (Stangnet, Corral, etc) of parts store cores failing quickly.