71 Fiat Spider Heater Core Replacement - Help!

[JohnD]

Hi,

I have a 1971 Fiat Spider and I am trying to finish up the replacement of a new heater core. The heater box won't close because the core is much thicker than the original. The vendor insists this part fits. Unfortunately I could not find a a vendor that sells the original core. I have read that you need to modify the top of the heater box. I also read you need to change the bottom of the heater box. I am confused! Has anyone had any success making this thicker core fit in an earlier spider. My core is pretty rusted, leaking and has broken bolts so not sure it could be recored. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

John D. Nicosia

[vandor]

Hi,

It does not sound like the vendor is being very helpful. Yes, the earlier core is thinner, you can fit a later/thicker core in your box but it takes a little work.
There are (I think 4) vertical tabs that keeps the heater core in place. You need to break these off, so the core can fit. However, now the outlets on the core will not line up with the holes on the side. With a dremel tool you have to enlarge these, so you can get to the nuts that hold the tube and the heater valve. If you do not have a dremel tool you can likely use pliers, but it won't look pretty...
It may be easier to do this if you remove the upper box. That is also a good time to lubricate the outside air door's hinges, and paint the door.

[JohnD]

Thanks so much Csaba! I will try this!

[JohnD]

Csaba,

Couldn't help myself and went out to look at the core. Do you mean to fully remove the case around the heater core. At that point does that remove the top section that has the bolts built into it?

Thanks,

John D. Nicosia

Hi,

It does not sound like the vendor is being very helpful. Yes, the earlier core is thinner, you can fit a later/thicker core in your box but it takes a little work.
There are (I think 4) vertical tabs that keeps the heater core in place. You need to break these off, so the core can fit. However, now the outlets on the core will not line up with the holes on the side. With a dremel tool you have to enlarge these, so you can get to the nuts that hold the tube and the heater valve. If you do not have a dremel tool you can likely use pliers, but it won't look pretty...
It may be easier to do this if you remove the upper box. That is also a good time to lubricate the outside air door's hinges, and paint the door.

[vandor]

Yes, once you removed the bottom section unbolt the 4 10mm nuts and let the top section drop down. Disconnect the cable and you can remove it from the car.

[JohnD]

THanks for the help. The heater core is now installed. I have heat and able to commute with the car. This is the 1st time the car has been driven to work since 1989.

Regards,

John D. Nicosia