About how much to have heater core replaced?

[scr1949]

I have an '88 Reliant, 2.2L Auto with A/C, 101K Miles.

Drivetrain and body is in good shape. I expect to get 200K+ miles.

The core is dripping.

I've been quoted $1000 by an independent garage in Portland, OR.

Is that close?

Thanks,

Herb

[88AriesLEwagon]

Its a terrible job.From what I read.The non AC cars are a lot easier,the AC cars require a freon drain and the whole heater box needs to come out.If you have a console,that needs to be removed as well.Scary job and I will have to do it come spring as a precaution myself.

[Butch]

It's a big big big job. Entire dash including steering cloumn and console has to come out to excess the heater box alone. Personnally I love doing heater cores, I was known as the heater core kid at 1 shop I worked at.

[Silverbeard]

Take it to a rad shop and get a quote for a replacement core, that is their business. I recall paying about $250, a lot less than my usual mechanic had quoted.
Martin

[88AriesLEwagon]

I do all my own work,and plan on replacing it come spring.So,I will know firsthand how ridiculous its going to be.

[scr1949]

Silverbeard,

Good idea on taking it to a radiator shop. Will do.

Thanks!!

[scr1949]

I went to http://www.macsradiator.com/ which is a northwest chain and got a quote of $682 US.

Having the work done next week.

scr

[Silverbeard]

Just looked at my invoice from 2007.
Core $60, plus antifreeze and 3.5 hrs. labour, total $415.00

[88AriesLEwagon]

The more I read on this subject,the more I dread doing the job.No way am I going to spend another $400-600 to change out a heater core,and let them screw something else up or forget something.With all the money I have spent on everything else so far,I will take my chances and take my time on this unpleasant job,when I decide to delve into it.By spring,but the more I think and read on it,I might delay it more and more...

[scr1949]

How do you drive with a leaky core?