Do I need to drain my A/C before replacing my heater core? Is it part of the process?

 

Just what are we looking at ?? A Yugo? Rambler? or a Model A Ford ??????????????

 

Sorry, forgot to put the year/model! 2002 F-150

 

Sorry to be blunt, but it's hard to help any without any info. Anyway, can't help much here although I would say no to draining the A/C. This 'How To' article for the blend door might help you out: https://www.f150online.com/forums/ar...-pictures.html

 

Just did mine (02 f150) and draining AC is not needed. Replaced blend door and heater core. A garage mechanic helped me and only charged me $100.

 

Heater core is independent of the AC system. You need to get your self a couple of hose clamps to crimp the hoses when you disconnect them from the firewall. Sam got a hell of a deal since you will need to pull the dash and that's pretty labor intensive. I replaced the the evap core in my 2007 and it took all of 8 hours with my mechanic friend and all the correct tools. Plus my lariat had a center console which had to come out too. Long story short its a job. Take a few pictures so y remember where stuff goes. I did not pull the dash on my 2000 XLT so I may be off on the dash removal. I also recommend a 6 pak to ease the pain lol.

 

It is best to have a compartmented storage box to keep the fasteners seperate and in a sequence left to right back to front. So you go back the reverse of the way it comes loose and slipped forward. Use care with the hose retainers, their o-rings and spacer. Easily lost.