Heater Core

[Roudy]

My '72 convertible has suddenly developed heater core leakage (anti-freeze smell during operation and slight puddling on the floor mats) :( I never operate the heater in this car as I only drive it in 60+ degree weather. I have two questions:

1) I'm not up to replacing the heater core myself, so how much financial damage would repair/replacement cost at a shop? I'm guessing it will be really high given the need to pull the dash.

2) Given my lack of need for a heater, I assume I can simply "loop" the two hoses leading to the firewall. Is that correct? Are there any other precautions I need to be aware of? Will I continue to get a little leakage after taking such action?

Thanks in advance.

Roudy

[Smartin]

No need to remove the dash! I did mine in about 3 hours one day.

You can loop the heater hose on the engine to bypass the core.