I have an 81 hatch. The heater core sprung a leak. Do I have to pull the entire dash to get at this thing? Has anyone ever used a Barsleak or something similar that really works? Thanks.

http://www.ultimatesubaru.org/forum/showthread.php?t=49964

 

This method works well. Beats having to pull entire dash out.

Personally I would pull the dash. But I hate doing things half-a$$ed.

 

I've done the pull-dash method and it's not as hard as it looks. Takes about 4 to 6 hours total if you have the new core handy.

 

Note that leaks are sometimes from the core, and sometimes from the heater control valve. The valve is a dealer only part ~$130

 

No one here will reccomend the leak-stop stuff. The way the cooling systems on subarus are set up it always causes more problems than it solves. Even if it did stop the leak it would clog the core completely and you would have no leak, but no heat either.

 

Also make sure it's coolant and not a leaky windshield - EA81's are known for both.

 

GD

...and not a leaky windshield - EA81's are known for both.

 

GD

 

Im in the middle of trying to trace down where it's leaking on mine as well. My hatch did the same thing.

Thank you both very much. I didn't really want to go with the "fix a leak in a bottle" route, I'm just dreading doing something I've never done before. Any of you guys want to make a $1 the hard way? just kiddin', here I go.

I have an 81 hatch. The heater core sprung a leak. Do I have to pull the entire dash to get at this thing? Has anyone ever used a Barsleak or something similar that really works? Thanks.

If you don't have A/C or if the A/C isn't charged, you can pull the unit out from the passenger side.

 

Don't use any stopleak stuff. Once you have the new core in, refill your cooling system with 50/50 antifreeze and "distilled" water. It's the best thing you can do for you system. No more corrosion and a lot less leaks.

I have an 81 hatch. The heater core sprung a leak. Do I have to pull the entire dash to get at this thing? Has anyone ever used a Barsleak or something similar that really works? Thanks.

NO STOP LEAK, its good (never good IMO) in a pinch if your 5billion miles away from the nearest star base but if youve got the tools and the time then fixit right, also, my dads a plumber (and the best one in arizona, probably the entire world ) so I was taught how to solder, but solder it up if it does turn out to be the core, ok ok, now I will go read the rest of this thread.