Coolent leak (heater core)

It certainly sounds like the heater core. The dash has to come out to fix.

 

There is also a short cut method where you don't have to pull the dash - uses a heater core that has the pipes cut short and you join them with hose. Do a search as it has been covered. If I find the link I'll post.

Edit...found the post which should save you time and $$$$. http://forums.justcommodores.com.au/vr-vs-holden-commodore-1993-1997/10470-heater-core-vs.html

 

I don't think you have to buy the modified unit - I think you can cut the pipes yourself to suit....think that was mentioned in the link. Pulling the dash will take the whole weekend to do and you can bet your bottom dollar something will go wrong and you will rip most of your hair out and invent new words. If you can live without the heater you could just block it off.

 

Finding hoses to fit will not be a problem - whoever you buy the heater matrix from will carry the hose to suit. I double checked the site I gave you before : http://forums.justcommodores.com.au/vr-vs-holden-commodore-1993-1997/10470-heater-core-vs.html
and it has pretty comprehensive instructions plus a photo, so If you take your time and plan exactly what you are going to do, it should be a piece of cake.

 

I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND not shortcutting a repair as vital as this. While in theory it is a perfect and cheap alternative to pulling the dash out and doing it properly, the consequences can be quite serious. I know of a few people who have shortcutted installing a new core and mated the two copper pipes on either side with heater hoses, which later exploded and burnt the owners quite badly. Just think; coolant that has been running through a hot engine, nw flowing through some rubber pipe in the cabin. One mistake, no skin.

Your call buddy, but pay the bucks to get it done right and you'll never have to do it for another ten years.

 

This is very true, but i do dissagree that it shouldnt be done this way. Propper spec flexible lines can hold higher pressures then a thin walled copper pipe, and as such no reason it shouldnt be used. The heater core carries identicle pressure to the radiator, as its all part of the same system. As such one could assume simple heater hose would suffice with no fear of rupture provided the pipes are properly alligned and sharp edges taken off. As above though, proceed with care.

 

That is a very good price - normally it's at least 8 hours for that job and at about $100 per hour plus the usual enviro waste charges plus plus plus, the bill would be near $1000.

 

i bet the mechanic will cut the pipes and joins it with heater hose for that price.

 

$200 plus parts maybe genuine, mechanics done get paid much, thats maybe his normal daily wage for 8 hours. and it takes less than 8 hours i used to be able to do them in around 5 hours dash out.