Low to non existent Heat

[Resilient]

Low to non existent Heat:
Went through the diagnostic steps from the shop manual (section 1-87, I think is the right start page)... anyway, ended up at a go to step 23: replace heater core.

The manual does talk about DTC codes (50 or 51) which relates to the heater core... So I will need to get a scan and see what I get...

But before, just wanted opinions: heater core... I can get a replacement heater core, probably cheaper than what the dealership will want to charge me... but...

is it a big (expensive) deal to have replaced at dearlership (time wise)... I could probably do it but at -24 C temperatures and no access to a heated garage, well... it's just too cold.

[Marks DTM Calib]

Before removing the heater core.

1) Check the vac pipes at the rear of the engine bay to make sure they are both conncted and fully intact....( you can find a diagram of them at www.omegaowners.com)

2) Remove the faston connectors to the heater core at the rear of the engine bay on the left hand side of the bulk head and flush the heater matrix using a hose pipe....

[Resilient]

Thanks Marks... all of this is kinda hard to do this weekend, it's still in the minus 20 C outside... will probably like this till then end of winter...

Another thing: why is there no mention of the HCV (heater control valve) ? Could that also be failing?

I was reading engine does not reach operating temperature (mine doesn't go to the half way when driving, stays around 1-4 line from the bottom on the gauge).... could be thermostat, need to have that checked first.

[Catera V]

Check to make sure your rad is full of coolant and your return bottle is half full. Stat is the next likely candidate.

[Resilient]

That was actually my first look also, the overflow reservoir was a bit low (half inch below the KALT (cold) level line)... so I added some DexCool filler to bring it up a bit....

OK, found some good data in... (who would have thought) the 1998 Catera Owner's manual...

Engine specifications:
Thermostat Starts to open ... 198 F (92 C)

Replacement part number:
Thermostat ... 90502201

Right operating temperature: when the needle is mid-way in the gauge.

So... that said: my low heat issue does indeed seem related to my thermostat... just need to have one ordered (in case) and available... so when I have it tested, if they say it bad... we have a replacement on hand.

[morourke]

A simple item, but sometimes overlooked, replace the cabin air filter.

[Resilient]

Thanks. It is a new one from the last oil change this summer, but worth taking a quick look again.

[Resilient]

UPDATE
Faulty thermostat = causing engine never to reach operating temp
Clogged heater core = low airflow and cabin heat

$940.00 CAD (parts and labour)

[Resilient]

NEW UPDATE
Cat is back at the dealership... seeping coolant like no tomorrow... they just checked, appears that within a day of changing my T-Stat... my rad is cracked!