First indication or heater core leak?

[Flyer58]

It's been a month since I drove my '92 YJ but I did back it out of the shop a few times and let it run for 15 minutes or so to warm up and get the juices flowing.

Twice now, I've found this small puddle on the passenger side floor. Never seen this before so it's something new, something else.... I just checked the overflow tank and it's empty, also checked the radiator and it's low and looks pretty nasty with corrosion building up. Never yet has it overheated, or come close, and never any smell of coolant inside or out.

Looks like it's time for both heater core and radiator replacement.

RockAuto has been my GoTo place. Any suggestions?

 

[Gilaguy23]

Yeppers, ugly as it is. Time for a new core. Ive never had any issues with RA parts either, just buy the best one they have.

 

[Flyer58]

The radiator and fan housing was easy, the heater box took a little longer than the youtube videos I watched.

 

[Flyer58]

I know I'm not the first to find this. As expected, the heater core leaked.

I cleaned out the fan plenum box. The divider plates are a mess with all the foam coming off and a little rust. I have the the plates out now soaking in vinegar to remove the rust. I'll paint them and apply new foam or felt pads.

 

[Flyer58]

The vinegar treatment overnight on the airflow dampers and dividers worked well. The rust and crust easily brushed off.

The more I read about replacement aluminum core, aftermarket heaters and radiators, the more questions and concerns I have. Some report they're great while others say they only lasted a year.