Looking for a heater core for a ‘54- ‘56 88 or 98, I assume they are the same?

 

I imagine a 54 and 55 are the same but not sure about a 56. It probably is. The heater core is a beast to get out, especially if it has never been out. GM used some kink of tar like stuff to seal the housing inside to the firewall. It literally takes a small crowbar to get the thing loose. It seems I remember there is a nut under the firewall that has to be taken off to get the thing out. When I pulled mine it was in pretty good shape and I had it resoldered. Mine had been bypassed for years but come to find out it was the Ranco valve that was leaking. About a year ago the heater core started leaking and I used some Barrs Leak to seal it. No way I was pulling that thing back out. So far, so good. I have no source for a heater core.

 

It comes out from under the dash but sometimes it helps to help push it out from the the firewall side through to the dash. Glenn is right what ever Oldsmobile used as a caulking is bullet proof, a good heat gun helps soften it up some... Tedd

 

According to my parts book . All '54 thru '56 heater cores are the same , part # 3131344 .
Fusick Automotive has them ;
http://www.fusickautomotiveproducts....number=3131344

 

I replaced the heater core in my '57 about five years ago. Went to my local rad shop and ordered one and it came in a few days later. About $220 CDN.

 

The hose connection at the firewall “Y” pipe is corroded and clogged, any suggestions on how to repair this?


Heater core “Y” pipe?

Broken and clogged!

 

New part time, all the parts and hoses. While you have it out from under the dash take a good look at the Ranco valve. With as much corrosion as I see it's probably shot also. Save it it may need to be rebuilt or trade it in they are getting hard to find..... Tedd

 

Thanks Tedd! Fusick has them.