Customer has the craziest repair request for the CAR WIZARD on this '04 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

[@scottbailey7605]

It's not a "crazy" request, it's something the factory should have done from the beginning. Smart customer!

[@davva360]

Agree. Should not be so damn difficult and therefore expensive to do. They leak all the time.

[@cogitoergovexo]

Here here. I often fantasize about how I would build a car in which EVERYTHING is designed to be easy to replace with minimal tools.

[@KingSobieski]

Next week the evap core starts leaking.

[@mws3779]

Agreed

[@ToomasTelling]

@@cogitoergovexo jup, i think car manufacturers should have mechanics as well as engineers involed in the design process so things would not get so screwed up.

[@sykopro]

As a Jeep guy, I don't think this devalued the vehicle at all. Every Jeep is customized in some way, and this is a functional modification.

[@taunuslunatic404]

The new buyer would probably be happy with that since he's going to save thousands during his ownership.

[@ronaldspins]

Yes syk you are right a lot of Jeep owners REALLY devalue the Jeep with dumb mods.

[@ringkong]

Exactly, how many YJs have a hole cut in the back to get to the fuel pump without dropping tank…. Most of them. 😀. I wish there was a way to do this for my JK , because the dash coming out is much harder than the TJ.

[@Iam_Yu627]

Agreed. But for one exception....those stupid angry eyes kids put on.

[@marvinmartian7281]

A practical modification indeed!

[@BaltimoreAndOhioRR]

As long as the mod is professionally done, with no ragged edges, and no bare metal exposed, this mod will most DEFINITELY add value to the Jeep!

[@wesleysaams448]

AGREED

[@AgentOrange96]

Jeeps and mods go together!

[@petesmitt]

how bad are Jeep heater cores? my 80's Mazda van has the original heater core, no leaks, works great.

[@InsideOfMyOwnMind]

Anyone who devalues a Jeep for a mod like this is not really looking for a Jeep. They're just looking for the deal.

[@phantommedia9964]

it is a bit of a safety issue since the purpose of a firewall is to protect occupants from a fire

[@Meralain]

I’m totally with the customer on this one! Taking 8 hours to replace a heater core is miserable. I made a “modification” to the dash in my JK to deal with a similar issue. As someone who owns Jeeps, the mod you made if preformed neatly isn’t going to affect the value at all.

[@I_know_what_im_talking_about]

Right? If anything you’ve just made the Jeep BETTER and this mod should easily add $500 for the value of this Jeep. The next customer will benefit from a simple repair and save freakin MONEY, Time and the dash being ripped apart.

[@TheGreatDemiGod]

100 percent agree with both of you. I'd pay more because of that.

[@mjolnirev7890]

I would pay more for a jeep with that modification

[@TomsTinkeringandAdventures]

This is a common mod for fuel pumps as well, since many of those require you to drop the tank. At least a few cars have access panels, but the ones that don’t get the Sawzall!

[@davida1878]

Oh yeah, I've done it.

[@arnold8746]

Done it several times.

[@Johnwalter1044]

Given the situation and the way they designed the heater core placement, i'd say this Jeep has gained value, since now it's going to have a faster and simpler repair in the future.

[@Oldsmobile69]

I know, right? And doing this from the factory would have been trivial!

[@ChrisParayno]

If parts are available 🤣🤣

[@theandrew999]

Agreed. I'd pay extra for a vehicle that has an upgrade that cuts out 98% of the time required to do a repair. For example, I have a Suzuki Samurai. You can use a hole saw to drill an inch hole into the heater box and then you can use the stock floor plugs to plug it. That way when it gets dirty or filled with junk, just pull the plug and shop vac it out. What used to take all day now takes five minutes.

[@larrywhittemore9362]

Simple and easy, well thought out modifications. Bravo Wizard!

[@garyalford9394]

Would not be afraid to buy it, infact I would say it would increase the value if done nicely.

[@Junior-rw3jm]

I see nothing wrong with the mod. As long as it’s functional and it doesn’t affect the integrity of the vehicle. Very smart mod

[@TrueNomadSkies]

If anything, this would help with resale given there is one less huge repair job, and for something that is going to be done again.

[@DJ-sr9yq]

It really isn't though I bet he never has to replace that again. Those aren't a common problem on those. That's why he can't find one, no companies even bother making them. they hardly ever fail.

[@mikehanley8478]

@@DJ-sr9yq clearly you don't own a TJ.

[@GeekyFast]

I came here to make this comment. Well said.

[@joshuaw711]

I personally think that might add some value. Apparently the part doesn’t exist anymore, but in the event of replacing it again it should be easy.

[@brianaustin1328]

“The customer is always right.” And in this case, he actually is. This should have been designed this way from the factory.

[@boogts]

You don't add $20 to the cost of millions of vehicles so that 20 years down the road its a little easier to fix on a handful of them - and likely not repaired by someone who buys cars new.

[@brianaustin1328]

@@boogts Wrong. These heater cores only last a few years in some vehicles. Why not make a few modifications to allow for easier repairs? Note: even if the modification cost $20 (doubtful), the cost would be added to the purchase price.

[@JetSkiBuyFixPlaySellChannel]

Agreed but they should also use a heater core that isn't pure junk.

[@boogts]

@@brianaustin1328 They have to last well beyond the warranty period and here you are looking at a repair nearly 15 years later. Even $5 is a huge per vehicle addition of cost and it will never ever happen just to make a rare repair happen a little easier.

[@boogts]

@@JetSkiBuyFixPlaySellChannel How long should a heater core last? This Jeep is from the mid 2000's. It's over warranty by a decade +

[@RMTCTL]

As a Jeep enthusiast, I think this is a great mod! I may actually pay *more* for this type of thing. Also, do a video on a GMT400 heater core. That's the way they should be done!

[@hungrymoose7627]

I just looked up a GMT400 heater core replacement and holy shit that is easy. I have a '95 and its nice to know thats something I can do myself in my driveway.

[@WhoThisGuy515]

I've owned 3 of those trucks and had to do a HC on each one, and man was that nice, 15 minutes and you're done.

[@scottimusgarrett15]

I think this customer kinda has the right idea. All it takes is an access panel that can be made to look factory and seals well. Looks like a nice, elegant solution to an expensive reoccurring problem! Thanks for the video, Mr. and Mrs. Wizard! Hope you're all happy and healthy!✌️❤️🙂🇨🇦

[@safffff1000]

It could add value to it by people who know the problem and know they will save in the future, I would love it.

[@2Str0k3]

Honestly i would do what the customer did. He knew it was an frequent issue and there was a way to go around. That car is no museum piece. Just a daily driver or something to have fun with. A car like that will not lose its value from a job like that in my opinion. I would understand hacking something of value or rarity would be awful but a normal jeep. Who could care less as long as it functions and now it can be repaired for a fraction of the cost. As long as a new core is found.

[@rf159a]

I agree with you. I think the next Jeep buyer of this vehicle, will thank him for it!!

[@dragonbrownies517]

As jeeps get older, they become more scarce due to how many are modified. But, this modification wouldn't hurt its value at all.

[@dannysdailys]

How is this a frequent issue?

[@2Str0k3]

​@@dannysdailys It may or may not be. I assumed it to be since i dont suppose the owner paid extra for fun for the shop to hack and modify the firewall and the other stuff. And knowing about that stuff he had to have done research about it and/or had to have gone through this before. Spends probably a few hundred more for those hacks so i dont think that the old heater core was the factory one. In a case where that was the original i would not spend such money on a car thats gone way over half of (or over) the lifespan it was designed for. Then again if this was something you do once a year i would. Or just simply get a car that doesnt fall apart all the time.

[@glennstiller7616]

I don't think it's strange, it's brilliant. If you can do that in your shop why can't a manufacturer design the vehicle that way. Makes total sense.

[@bngr_bngr]

Why do these heater cores fail in a year?

[@Iconoclasher]

@@bngr_bngr I agree. My 54 Nash has the original core and still works. 5 years ago i noticed a little "wet spot" and I put in some AlumaSeal and it patched it. Still working.

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

@@bngr_bngr - In a year? This thing is 18 yrs old.

[@kennethmelnychuk9737]

@@bngr_bngr planned obsolescence

[@houseofno]

Car companies build these to make money and be easy to rebuild, not easy to service or repair. They don't want you fixing them, they want to sell you a new one for another five to seven years of payments.

[@gp500fan]

I'm in the process of doing a Tub swap and other things on a Jeep TJ and this idea is FREAKING AWESOME!! Thank you for this video!!

[@RunDub]

Smart customer. And nice work, Wizard!

[@stevemorris270]

I think this will ADD value to the car. Great idea.

[@Tomservoca]

This begs the question, why didn't Chrysler design it this way in the first place? Re loss of value: A Jeep enthusiast will say: "Great idea! Most excellent!"

[@patrickradcliffe3837]

Not just Chrysler all auto makers do it this way. The only vehicle I did not have pull the box was a 69' Ranchero.

[@Rmehki]

This is how you do the job on 95% of cars anyway, its not just Chrysler. I don't blame the owner, I would've done the same thing.

[@popejoeii]

Right? Loss of 500-1000 in value? He must not know Jeep people very well. Lol

[@aaronb4936]

@@popejoeii I agree AS LONG as it’s a well thought out professinal looking repair it wouldn’t bother me at all. If Jim bob cut it with a sawzall and then duct taped over it that’s a different story lol

[@johancoetzer2165]

Chrysler did not do it because it would cost money and eat into profits.

[@landonking4756]

Did something similar to my JK. Supposed to remove the whole dash to get the heater core out, and they fail all the time. If you make a small modification to the dash frame behind the passenger kick panel and cut the heater core lines you can slide the core right out into the passenger footwell. Then you cut the lines on the new one, slide it in, and connect the lines using heater hose and hose clamps. Took me less than an hour instead of 6 hours and has been working great for 3 years now. Saved myself about $1000.

[@07wrxtr1]

So why can't the cores themselves just be made to be more durable? Someone could manufacture one that's beefy, and make MEEEEEEEEEEEEEELIONZ so people only have to do this song n dance ONE time.

[@landonking4756]

@@07wrxtr1 its not the core itself that is the problem, its a manufacturing process issue. The 3.6 V6 pentastar engine has casting sand left in the block from the factory and it eventually clogs the heater core.

[@TK42715]

very sensible request! making things more easily fixable is always a good thing

[@johnalees99]

Having had to pull a dash out to do a heater core, yes. This makes perfect sense to do and also makes me wish all car manufacturers could make maintenance access easier.

[@forfluf]

When my heater core was leaking I didn't want to replace it with another el cheapo heater core that was aluminium and plastic. So I got me one from a Chevette, those were 100% brass. And it worked! I just had to cut a hole for the pipe that had an elbow where the original didn't. Jeep owner should try finding a similar core.

[@andrewmp6]

If you can find a old school radiator shop they can built you one all brass

[@forfluf]

@@andrewmp6 It's all brass of freeze your ass. 😄

[@AxnerSaab]

To be honest, you could say that this jeep owner is actually SMART. I wouldn't like to spend that kind of money every year. Seems odd on paper, but when explained it's quite smart. I'd do it too tbh.

[@Flies2FLL]

Yeah, but how many times in the future does he plan on changing this part out? You don't change heater cores like you do oil filters....

[@Stromaism]

@@Flies2FLL my friend with a passat has changed his twice in the 2021 year it really depends on your vehicle

[@Flies2FLL]

@@Stromaism A phrase for your friend: "Class Action Lawsuit".

[@francislawlor4123]

I don't know what a heater core is,how much does it cost to repair or replace. MAYBE I'll call Dennis Collins 🤔 from COFFEE ☕ WALK???!💡😁☘🥞🥩🥓🍔🍟🍕🌭🥙🍦🦪🥧🍵☕☕☕🍽🏜🚘🏎🚙🛻🛣⛽🚦⌚🌞🎄🎁🏆🕶📱💸💲🔧🪛🧰🪣🧽🏁🇨🇮🇵🇷🇺🇸👨‍🦳🥪🍩👓🌏🍍☕

[@Flies2FLL]

@@francislawlor4123 ::Slides a beer to Francis Lawlor::

[@MrDDawson]

After watching this I have to ask all automotive designers one thing, WHY was it not designed like this from the start? WHY? Great video Wizard's!

[@maudepotvin8660]

moneys !

[@dunebasher1971]

Easy - it's much more expensive to build it like that. All those extra panels, screws, seals, it all adds up to a significant extra cost per vehicle. And despite what was said in the video, heater cores really DON'T need replacing every year, they're more like a once-every-10-years kind of thing for most vehicles, and plenty of owners will never need to even think about it. So making heater and evap cores more accessible really isn't a priority for ANY vehicle manufacturer, since they typically don't need replacing until the vehicle is 10-15 years old or older.

[@daviddavis1322]

Extra holes in stuff requires more seals to keep air in and water out of the cabin. Access panels are good but have their own problems.

[@batsonelectronics]

it would only work on the inline 6 as the 4 cylinder is wider and wouldn't have that straight opening to pull it out. It can only be easy to remove on the i6 models and the next Gen were V6's as they stopped using the I6.

[@thekikendallsautoandrandom1271]

Early 90s GM trucks were dirt simple to change the core out. Takes fifteen minutes. No dash removal. There was a plate on the passenger side under the dash, 6 or 7 self tapping screws pulled the plastic plate loose. 1 screw on the core, disconnect the hoses from under the hood. Literally one of the smartest factory designs ever...

[@johnschuler3269]

As an EE and ME, it makes perfect sense to me. I thought of that very same thing when I watched your earlier $1,500 Heater Core Replacement. ALSO, one could probably use ANY Heater Core that is slightly smaller, but still more than adequate. e.g. Toyota or Honda Or Lexus, etc. That way perhaps MANY choices that are actually IN STOCK ! BTW ... another good reason to change the Coolant every 50K miles or so ... to protect the Heater Core. John in the NW

[@MBeshada]

What a great idea. Just replaced the heater core on my 2004 Jeep Wrangler. Wish I would have thought of that mod.

[@jasonbrannen7598]

Had to put an evaporator in my '98 ZJ. Takes a whole weekend. I would think as stripped down as a TJ is, removing the dash wouldn't be *that* big of a deal. One thing is for sure: now that there's a hole in the firewall to make this repair easier in the future, the new heater core will NEVER need to be replaced!

[@throttle_down_beers_up]

It's not that big of a deal. It's the cost of the labor.

[@mattbrew11]

I had a 1998 5.9 Limited ZJ. Amazing how sad the specs seem in todays numbers back then it felt like a rocket

[@seangray933]

I’d actually pay more for a jeep with this modification.

[@mattfarahsmillionmilelexus]

Actually pretty ingenious. Too bad it can't be done on many other cars because the heater core would be blocked in by the engine.

[@antonisautos8704]

Depending on the car pulling an engine might be less work than pulling the dashboard.

[@davidshettlesworth1442]

That is a neat idea, Just an access panel. Just a note: I can see the Jeep Gladiators that have an Aux battery hidden below the main battery, creating an access door via the fender wheel well panel to change out the Aux battery easily. (Thinking outside the box to solve problems, especially since it is a Jeep) Job well done.

[@johnmohanmusic]

This situation reminds me of how some cars have an access panel under the rear seats (or in the case of the Miata, under the carpeting of the deck just behind the two seats) to access the electronic fuel pump that sits in the fuel tank, while others (including the Ford Taurus we used to have) has no such access panel, requiring removal of the fuel tank to change out the fuel pump - unless one cuts out their own access hole and creates a fabricated panel to cover it back up afterward as I did.

[@miketeeveedub5779]

I've been a Rock Auto customer for over 10 years. They're very good - they're my go-to for most car part orders. I trust them to deliver the products they advertise. My 37 year old VW Jetta wouldn't be running without them. Only issue is you do have to wait several days for delivery, so you need to plan ahead to anticipate for that. As for the heater core mod - great idea! Too bad the accountants at Jeep overruled the engineers to make the part more accessible for service.

[@CR7659]

I actually once got next day delivery from Rock Auto. They source from United Auto Supply and guess where they have a warehouse? Right here in town. I just got lucky the parts I needed were there.

[@JSchroederee]

I gave up on rock auto. I was replacing rear break calipers on my mini. First one went on fine 2nd one I get it mounted and find the thread for the brake line just wasn't there. It was just a smooth hole. Because I bought them as a pair Rock auto wouldn't let me return/exchange just one caliper. They sold individual calipers but nope they wouldn't work with me. I had to take the one I already installed back off and return them both.

[@WhoThisGuy515]

@@JSchroederee That's not Rockauto fault, that would be the supplier and manufacturer of that part. If they tell the supplier that the part was incomplete and the supplier says they need the pair returned then RockAuto can only relay the message. They have saved me tens of thousands of dollars.

[@andrewroberts1787]

The TJ Rubicon is one of the most sought after models of Jeep, and command crazy money given their age/mileage... I had a highly modded TJ Sahara which remains the best vehicle I ever owned. Would love one again!

[@stansmith4054]

I was looking at one here in Michigan. Never owned a Jeep. Are they reliable for daily driving and how do they do in the snow? Is insurance high on them? Thanks!

[@DI-ih1sf]

@@stansmith4054 It was great in the snow - insurance was liability only so not that expensive.

[@samclemens2916]

@@stansmith4054 wouldn’t buy one from Michigan. The frame will be a rotted out mess. Head south to Indy/Dayton to find a cleaner one.

[@FullArmorE6]

Yep. 01 TJ Sahara. Bought it new. Best vehicle ever. Sold it to get a 2012 JK new. Still miss that TJ.

[@chrishernandez2490]

Whats awesome about this mod is that the owner now has video evidence that this mod was done in a professional shop with excellent workmanship. Its probably lost some "book" value but has definitely gained some "street" value.

[@haroldgnomme5234]

I was an engineer employed for 28 years. All I can say is, all ideas engineers have, have to be approved by the managers. If you don't like this situation, there's the door. I was told 'when I want your opinion, I'll give it to you'.

[@hernandovillamarinbuenaven7476]

Waaay too upsetting awsome Automotive Engineers' ideas, (Truly making customers' lives much more comfy), are completely disreagarded by greedy bean counters. It IS gonna change!!.✊🇺🇸

[@shermandaniel8285]

@@hernandovillamarinbuenaven7476 , customer gets to pay 100$ a hour or more to get it done … they were not going to make it easy !!!

[@bobkonradi1027]

Engineers don't live in the real world. I remember from years ago when I had an 18-ft I-O boat at a boat dock, and their service man could continually be cursing out the Mercury engineers about the design of their inline outboard engines, where the spark plugs were virtually impossible to get out... "Goddamn engineers" he would say. Everything was tightly packaged so as to minimize the physical size of the engine in its cowl. Its just that he couldn't get to the spark plugs. He thought that every engineer for every mfgr should be required to be sent out into the field to try and repair their creations. Personally, I totally agreed with him. Can we imagine some Jeep engineers trying to get to a heater core on one of their JK designs.? The instructions.. "change this heater core, and you've only got a standard rate hour to do it." And "Go for it."

[@mbox314]

Where did you work as an engineer?

[@mattbrown5511]

Let me guess, you stayed knowing you were fucking people over.

[@davidberry6046]

As an old-time mechanic myself, I agree that this mod will definitely add value for the customer in not having to pay a bunch every year or so. There is one thing I might have done, however, and that is to carefully measure the outside dimensions of the Jeep core, as well as the positioning of the intake and exhaust hoses, and try to find a heater core from another manufacturer that would fit, and that is also readily available, so he doesn't have the same problem you are having in finding a replacement core. Besides, that substitute core would probably last a smidge longer than a Jeep part. I replaced the heater core on my '85 K5 Blazer about ten years ago for a cost of $11.00, and it's still going strong!

[@dretech]

When you own a Jeep, you gotta be very creative all the time. I'd do the same as the owner in this situation.

[@erics3596]

Exactly what I did with one of my old VW Sciroccos - didn't have to cut the firewall fortunately, just make an access panel on the heater box, slides out towards the pedals (yes many of a vintage watercooled VW owner has had their right foot burned by heater cores popping)

[@r8421]

I think its a good idea and could become a standard modification many Jeep owners do.

[@Tomservoca]

Wizard could have a profitable sideline making kits for sale.

[@Johnhrop]

It’s not mad at all! The 4x4 community is full of modifications. (for better or worst) If this is a part know to fail… this just adds value. Example: if you were stuck in a remote location and needed a quick fix to the hose. Access would be 👍! Love your work Wizard. Gday from Australia!

[@RayleighCriterion]

I replaced the heater core on my 1995 Chevy Caprice back in like 2005-ish, the part was in stock at the local dealer, and it took about an hour tops to swap it out, the hardest part of the job was getting a 1/4 inch wrench handle to fit up next to the firewall to get out one hex head screw without a lot of room.

[@lexalford358]

I think it’s worth more with the cutout for the heater core. I would just go to a salvage yard and look for a older vehicle and compare heater core and find one that is close enough to work or could be modified to work a Honda Civic is close to the same size cabin a radiator shop is another possibility Pop they might be able to make one that is not plastic

[@dunebasher1971]

Only the input and output tubes are plastic. And they're plastic because they're so short and straight compared to the longer, curved input/output pipes on most heater cores.

[@carlashton9331]

Seems like a smart idea to me. Good thing it clears the engine

[@JVHShack]

I've encountered this problem before on few different vehicles. What I did to solve the problem with the lack of the original part was to find a similar sized part from the paper catalog at O'Reilly's and purchased that. If the hose connectors are different, there's a way around that. All that matters is the core itself fits in the allocated space and causes no issues.

[@soisaidtogod4248]

Field fabricated alteration.

[@jamesinkeys]

Wizard, if you signed (autographed)the cover plate to the heater core, this will tremendously add value to the Jeep.. This, as a collector piece.. Subbed, and always a thumbs up!

[@jamesbromstead4949]

Reminds me of a blower fan I had to replace in a friends Volvo. Took hours to get to. In the end we called it a Car built around a fan. This same car required removal of the front fender to access the oil filter.

[@marcusjosefsson4998]

What Volvo model required that??? Never ever heard of...

[@afamilyoutside]

The wizard likes things to be all original and stay all original. Like others have said, most car guys would look at that mod and be stoked it was done.

[@rickaser2383]

Couple comments: Consider a compatible heater core dimension-wise; looks like a mid-70 Ford core I changed back in the day. Local radiator shop would be a good place to start. Also I assume your access covers will be steel and not aluminum; if not galvanic corrosion will start. Thanks.

[@jimhiner1244]

Very nice, clean TJ! So little rust compared to ours here in Michigan. Those fog lights are indeed factory.

[@Ornelas11B]

Pure Michigan. I’ve got a rust free 05 Ford Ranger that I drive in Michigan winters. It’s such a beautiful truck. Paint shines like new. I just got it back last week from having a brand new Jasper engine installed. Timing chain went at 192,000 miles. The famous 4.0 Ford V6.

[@AdamIsUrqed]

@@Ornelas11B I had a '96 for 11 years. It went 334k miles on original 4.0 and transmission. If I could have afforded everything to fix it, I wouldn't have scrapped it. It had no right lasting as long as it did with the way I abused it with lack of maintenence. I have spent the last two years looking for a similar vehicle and they are all ragged out or bloody 4 cylinders. I have yet to have a vehicle last as long, even babying with all maintenence on time, etc. I hauled dirt, decorative gardening rocks (well beyond payload weight maximums), helped friends move, and crisscrossed the US in it multiple times. It saw 34 states and didn't leave me stranded til the end. Transmission finally gave up.

[@Ornelas11B]

@@AdamIsUrqed Yeah, that’s the thing about my truck, it’s in such good shape I keep fixing it. I’ve got over $15,000 in receipts in the last two years. It’s a gorgeous truck. It’s on my channel actually.

[@TeddyPatrickS]

I would 100% pay more for a jeep with this mod. A modification that is done professionally and makes the car easier to work on without harming functionality or aesthetic (yes a hole with a panel on the firewall but I wouldn’t care or even notice that… not like jeep engine bays were designed to be pretty) seems like a great mod to me

[@porkchops98]

Have you tried Collins Brothers Jeep out of Texas for a heater core and the next buyer is just gonna be like that's ingenious!!!

[@FullmetalDragon1212]

Given all the crazy things that I've seen done to TJ's and how many I've seen destroyed and if I was personally shopping for a new one and I saw that someone had the Brilliance to actually make an access port so you don't have to do seven times more work than needed, I would actually pay him $500. simple reason being is TJ's are simple and very reliable vehicles and if you are willing to spend the wrench time you can absolutely maintain those in your driveway with a basic set of tools. It may be an odd request by a lot of other people but I can tell you any person who's a true Jeep person will appreciate that type of a mod. Also knowing the pride that you guys take in your work you also make it look way better than average Joe with no experience in sheet metal could. If I get the money to repair mine and ever have to do a heater core I'll probably do that same mod.

[@americanrambler4972]

This is a perfectly sensible modification. A steel metal cover over the opening is just fine. TJ Jeep wranglers are one of those few vehicles that have almost eternal lives. So long as they don’t get wadded up in a crash or get salty crusty corroded away, there is always a strong market for them in almost any condition.

[@WhatTheHeck1290]

Yup, sold mine and regret it every day since

[@WhatTheHeck1290]

@@kimbuck-2 you should, especially with that low mileage. I had 1999 TJ with 46,000 miles when I bought it broken. Fixed it up for less then 1,700 dollars. Ran for a solid 11 years, then sold it with 110,000 miles.

[@tracyhucks7147]

I love my 97. I've had it for 12 years. I have put new motor 4.0 l several heater cores. AC systems clutch u joints seats rear axle carrier chrome moly axles shafts. Ball joint shocks tie rods brakes. That's a small list but for 25 years old car I love it and I'm going to drive it another 25

[@chconserful]

"...& this Jeep gets a small cut as well..." 😂 You & I would be friends in real life Car Wizard. Appreciate your content & your style! 👍

[@jedson1637]

I love the plug about going to church! Makes you even cooler.

[@MtlrcksCOD666]

I had a 1977 Thunderbird that only took about 15 minutes to change the heater core. It had 7 little bolts to remove a cover under the hood on the passenger side and it came right out. Best design I have ever seen for a hater core set up.

[@bobbates6642]

I think the guy made a smart move . That is one modification that a jeep guy will understand is going to make life easier . So why not. As long as you seal up the fire wall after

[@Stanjara]

I don't understand why is it so baffling to a mechanic that a customer wanted something like this. Guys this is so crazy... why? That's the best decision this customer made.

[@GMCJay_lly]

It's not baffling to the mechanic, just makes for good content.

[@fredsimmons6188]

I think this is a great idea. Just paint the cover panel to match the firewall.

[@TooBrokeToWheel]

Having done heater core swaps myself on vehicles that require removal of the dash I'm all in on this mod. Dash removal brings the suck bigtime.

[@darlenegeorgeboyd8493]

When the fuel pump in my 1990 Suburban failed I wasn't going to struggle with dropping an almost full 40 gallon tank. I cut a just large enough access hole in the floor above the tank. Very easy to remove the pump that way. Sealed the hole with caulk and sheet metal. With the carpet over it you can't tell the floor has been cut.

[@stevemonkey6666]

Man! You really managed to drag out the reveal of the crazy request.

[@keithmatthews1673]

and it wasn't even crazy!

[@HRH_RWWL_II]

😂😂😂

[@jd2304]

There’s a saying in the UK “dragging the ar*e out of it”………….

[@harriettedaisy2233]

I think you’ve misread the Jeep community. A Jeep enthusiast that spots that plate will know exactly why it is there and approve.

[@duncanatr]

I would absolutely want that mod in my 01 TJ

[@jjlegend3922]

Mr. and Mrs. Wizard, giving us a video right after church service! lol! You guys really are the best people.

[@james2042]

Looks good to me, I wished I knew a mechanic like you around here who actually did good work vs conning everyone they see

[@jorgefernandez-mv8hu]

I think you increased the value and gave alot of owners an idea for their own vehicles. Don't be surprised if you get more of these requests.

[@ivycycles]

I dunno, I've found Rock Auto to be very reliable. I have one of their A/C compressors in my 240SX that I converted to R-134 myself. I also installed a condenser and radiator in my 2004 Toyota Sienna that I purchased from them. Never a problem. The access panel only makes sense. And since you are the ones doing it, we all know it isn't going to be a hack job. The factory should have done that to begin with.

[@dunebasher1971]

The reason the factory didn't was that all those extra panels, screws, seals etc would have added significant extra cost per vehicle. Absolutely no way the bean counters would agree to that for a part that usually has a lifespan of 10-15 years plus. And if you were doing it for the heater core, why not the evap core too? Again, even more cost for a part that rarely needs changing in the life of any given vehicle.

[@WhoThisGuy515]

Well technically it's not Rockauto's A/C compressor as they don't have parts of their own, they simply sell parts from hundreds of other suppliers.

[@allanfoster6965]

A brilliant idea. I think the car wizard may be inundated with requests to do this to other models of cars. Watch out Car Wizard!

[@TheBrokenLife]

Weird... My '99 TJ is still on its OEM core. *Fingers crossed*

[@ap101081]

So is my 2000 Honda Prelude

[@keithmatthews1673]

I bet yours is metal and they later switched to plastic!

[@TheBrokenLife]

@@keithmatthews1673 I'll find out soon enough as the hoses are also OEM and should be replaced, well, probably 10 years ago. I kinda doubt it's steel, but we'll see. Really, plastic tanks _should_ be superior if the design was done well.

[@TheFernando9431]

One of the perks of living in a tropical country (Costa Rica) it’s that if you have a faulty heater core you just by pass it by binding the two lines in the engine bay with a hose (A lot of cars have that mod, given that a chilly day here is around 15 degrees (Celsius) so a heater core here is mostly useless) But given the situation with the snow in the US and taking into account the amount of work that takes to replace the heater core, I would say that this mod is a great idea

[@PhilipMReeder]

I was watching a video on KZbin the other day about the USS Silversides, WWII submarine. It is a floating museum in Michigan. The tour guide pointed out that whenever a piece of equipment needed to be installed or removed from the sub that the hatches or other ports were too small for access, the crew would cut the pressure vessel open to make the exchange, then reinstall the metalwork with rivets and sealant. One hole cut then fixed was at least ten by ten feet at the top of the engine room probably to replace one or more engines. I saw this video, thought of Hoovie's Lambo and smiled.

[@rposton919]

Boom! Needs to be done more often. I'd do it myself. To me it would ADD value to the car when done properly. Sadly, factory engineers could make it just as easy.

[@scottlewis2372]

Having helped a buddy do a heater core swap on a TJ, I think this mod is genius. It is disturbing that the part isn't available.

[@garyalford9394]

Yes and why can't someone make a better heater core ? doesn't look like rocket science !!

[@mikerobbins5049]

I remember cutting a hole in a heater box inside a car of mine to replace a blower motor rather than pulling half the dash out. In the end, you could hardly tell what I did. The fact that I drove the car for many years so value at the end was of no concern....

[@brewcityb]

Love it I wish OEMs would give access to do this.

[@ggeimer]

Datsun/Nissan did something similar on the clutch on the F10. I was able to change my clutch with a 1/4” metric set I bought at Builders Emporium in about 20 minutes. I actually rode a bicycle to the store at 9 p.m. while a neighbor was trying to get into his car with the key locked inside. I replaced the clutch and then unlocked his car. The clutch is accessible though a half bell housing after removing the transfer gear and release slave cylinder. The clutch is sandwiched between the half flywheel that is removed through the half bell housing. All this can be done with the wheels on the ground and just leaning under the hood. No need to access under the vehicle. No need to separate the engine from the transmission. No special tool needed like the Saab 900 needs.

[@robertf4540]

I think it's a great idea. Why the Hell didn't Jeep think of that?

[@NYPATRIOTBX]

This should be done to all cars, it’s crazy how you have to remove an entire dashboard to remove a 50 dollar part

[@JethroRose]

unfortunately on a lot of modern cars that use monocoque construction the firewall is structural. jeep is body on frame so its ok there.

[@CathyInBlue]

Sounds like an opportunity for an enterprising entrepreneur to develop a metal heater core for TJs that fits in the space of the stock unobtainium and lasts longer than a year.

[@jjtt7408]

YOU HAVE ONE VERY SMART CUSTOMER / AND THANK YOU MR. WIZARD FOR SHARING THAT VERY IMPORTANT AND SMART FIX FOR A JEEP HEATER CORE REPLACEMENT /

[@chrisbreault5854]

I did a heater core in my 4.0 TJ . I lowered the steering column until it rested on the driver seat. I unbolted the dash , but didnt completely remove it. I actually suspended back as far as i could with bungee cords back to the roll bar. I removed the center console. I was able to carefully take the heater box assembly out in one piece. Thankfully i didnt have ac to deal with. It took 4 hours to remove and 4 hours to install. Backyard job. The heater core at the time was pretty cheap. I think the garage wanted $800 to do it. At the time i just didnt have the extra cash so i did it myself. But it was a bear of a job!

[@wandameadows5736]

These kind of mods are something you should advertise. Imagine the work it would save anyone, including you, to replace parts. I guess one could say the downside is less work in the future but I think it will have the opposite effect.

[@terrystroble8657]

I bet you get more requests for this mod. Unless heater cores become totally extinct. This is an upgrade imo. Only an odd ball would think this is an odd request.

[@jonsingle1614]

Can any of the custom rad shops make a heater core ?

[@rwieber79]

This mod is similar to adding an access panel to remove the fuel pump without having to drop the tank on a vehicle every time one fails. In my opinion if you know your going to keep a vehicle for a long period of time or until it blows up then both mods are absolutely worth it. Because once you replace the parts once, more than likely your gonna end up having to do it again. Especially when you cant or dont use OEM replacement parts because the cheap Chinese replacements will fail much faster than the OEM one did. And sometimes even the OEM replacement parts dont seem to last either.

[@SqueakyHinge]

It's quite possible that a coil company that makes heating/cooling coils for HVAC/R equipment can make a replacement coil if you send them the old one. Then ask for the copper coil to be made from a thicker HVAC type K copper which will last longer. All you have to do is braze on the inlet/outlet stubs with the heater valve or TXV valve. I have done this numerous times on older complicated HVAC/R equipment. Heatcraft is one coil manufacturer that I can name right now. Call or message them to see if they still have a coil building division.

[@LukeEdward]

With care, and guidance from a trusted source, this can be done from the engine bay with a small cutoff wheel. The risk is cutting into your heater core, which is what you’re replacing anyway, so….. yeah…. Don’t ask me how I know this.

[@samuelbeach5585]

In this day and age, always make sure parts are available for the specific repair before you tear it apart.

[@chrisminifie219]

Good point, but in this case if it leaks then it has to be removed even if there is no replacement; although you could just loop a hose to bypass the core. Now with the modification it can be dealt with quickly and cheaply once a core is found

[@talesofthecrypt-o4980]

Only takes a 1 min search on ebay to buy one.

[@dabandel]

Having had to replace the heater core myself twice in my 1997 TJ, I can totally understand this modification. Wish I had thought of that.

[@garyalford9394]

Also like a G.M truck fuel tank pump access cover! especially the way those things eat fuel pumps !!

[@b52murph]

I'm not in the market for a Jeep TJ...although I did spend some time under the hood of a friend's rebuilt '03 about 10 years ago. Once these are built up and treasured, they're not an expendable commodity. As nice as this one appears, it should be on the road for another 20 years. And given that most of the "Jeep-ers" I know want to do work themselves, this mod makes absolute perfect sense. Great work WIZARD! 😊

[@davidt3464]

94 & older Wranglers its literally a 2 hour job to swap a heater core.. Once you've done it once.. ;) I have AC and I can still have the whole heater out in < a hour, while you have it out the first time you make sure the fan will come out from the engine side by trimming like 1/8" off the hole. Then the Chevy pickup fan fits and the heater will rock! the heater core in my 94 made it to 200K miles/18 years or so, I changed the coolant regularly.. The YJ core looks the same as that TJ..

[@Doctors_TARDIS]

Most Jeep enthusiasts I know would actually love this modification

[@rgbigdog]

An access panel should have been put in there by the design engineers when they drew up the plans for the Jeep.

[@Iconoclasher]

A good radiator shop could fabricate a new heater core. I had one fabbed for a Nash once. I disagree with your assessment. A true Jeep Guru would probably appreciate the modification and gladly pay extra for it. I would!

[@fuddrucker74]

Respect, for sharing your faith.

[@k2planks]

Having owned a 97 Jeep TJ for over 20 years...I completely understand this request. I love my TJ and have no interest in selling it. But every few years I smell radiator fluid, and find a damp spot in the passenger foot well carpet...and then need to plan a weekend to do this service to my own jeep...again! I wish I had thought of this 20 years ago. Smart customer!!! I am a little worried about the lack of availability for this core though...going to buy a couple when I find them, or will just need to get a custom (much higher quality) one built the next time. Wonderful Jeep that I am just as happy with now (perhaps moreso) than when I bought her 20 years ago!!!

[@ryanhorsley9965]

I actually think this could be a cool thing if the fabricated cover looks seamless. Burying a failure-prone and difficult to find part behind a dash is a far worse thing to live with. Too bad it'll be a hard heater core to obtain, which is unexpected and shocking considering how huge the Jeep aftermarket is.

[@tabbott429]

heater cores normally last 15 years or more if the coolant is maintained properly.. Its not THAT hard to change a heater core. I did mine myself without taking the dash out. Lloosen the dash and steering columne and pull it away from firewall on passenger side to gain access. swap and reassemble. THis is a silly request IMO for something that rarely fails

[@DL-ry3qg]

So you’re smarter than the car wizard? He could use you

[@mickmcnulty8200]

Why didn't you cut the firewall FIRST? If they wanted that done, You could have saved time and expense. Also, you say " replace every year" well if they are that hard to find, that will be a chore, and get harder.

[@alexlaney3423]

Tell them to flush their coolant every 6 months and stop using cheap stuff. There's even anti oxidation agents you can add to the coolant. Having it recored is probably your best bet right now. My 96 XJ had a Tee installed on the coolant line over the engine for quick flushes and I'm impressed.

[@HowardJrFord]

Every 6 months ? That is overkill .

[@alexlaney3423]

@@HowardJrFord if he's going through a heater core every year it's obviously shitty coolant. Hence change it every 6 months

[@DI-ih1sf]

@@alexlaney3423 This is the first time the heater core went out since it was bought 7 years ago

[@grahamquigley8818]

as you said Wizard, 'It makes sense' . love your work and your channel. thanks.

[@maxst2]

Next owner would prolly give him a hug and say thanks for doing all the work