Hello,

I have a 1964 Cutlass 442, My hoses back at my firewall through the heater control valve over to the manifold are old and leaking and need replaced. I think I have a one piece hose on order that will connect from the firewall to the manifold. but my original set up has the heater control valve setting in the middle on the current set up making the hose 2 pieces. So my question what the heck does the control really do? I see it has vacuum ports but my car has never had any vacuum hoses connected to it? So can I take it out? My engine temps seem stable at 180, so I'm not sure to if I want to cut the hose to put it in? does it act on water temp? if not, I'm not sure what its benefit would be.

Anyone out their knows more than I do?? I'm sure someone knows better - Thanks Sixtyfour

 

The heater control valve is used to stop hot coolant from flowing in the heater core when the A/C is at MAX A/C. The OEM valve on your 64 was a normally-closed valve that needed vacuum to open. Your control head is designed to apply vacuum in all positions except MAX A/C. If vacuum is not connected to the valve, it means that the valve would be closed when you were trying to get heat. Of course, this assumes you have the OEM valve and not an incorrect newer replacement that is normally open.

 

Thanks for the response, Since I don't have AC, I guess I can leave the valve out and just have one piece hose.

Thanks again! Sixtyfour

 

Replace it with a restrictor nipple. You can buy these repro

 

Is their a down side if I just go straight hose? Is their a part number for the nipple?

 

Yes, you can blow out your heater core and have big mess.

 

OK - Thanks for that. any idea on a nipple part number? Or just use whats their? it's been their about sixty years