I have a 1996 ford explorer with a bad heater core and water pump?

Question

1996 Ford explorer 5.0 v8 how can i replace the heater core and the water pump and are there any manuals that really show you how to get it done

Answer 1

If you had a 94 you'd be ok, but the 96 requires taking the whole dash apart to replace the core. Not a job for the fainthearted or sober.
If you don't fix it right away you should at least bypass the heater core so you don't lose pressure to the system.

Answer 2

Yes there are manuals, but they usually are not very detailed as they assume some mechanical knowledge. The water pump is pretty straightforward, as you have to drain the radiator and remove the stuff in the way in order to get to the pump. Just do not get to carried away using too much gasket sealer and use never seize on the bolts as they are going into an aluminum block, and torque to spec. eveningly. The heater core is not to bad and do this at the same time. Remove the heater hose from the core pipes in the engine compartment and then remove the core from under the dash on the passenger side. Is a pain to get to, but is not difficult. Just be careful in putting in the new core as the metal is soft and can easily crack.

Answer 3

The best bet is to pay a dealership to change the heater core.. because those can be a biotch to take apart and re-assemble especially if it has an AC system...

Some water pumps are easily taken off and put back on... buy a water pump and just read the directions usually included in the box...

Answer 4

Any auto parts store will sell you a manual for your year and model. The ford dealership will have one that you may have to order that should be more detailed for your specific year and model. Have you done an online search? Alot of info on the web just takes time to fiind it.