I've been able to determine that the heater core is more or less shot on my '80 245 DL. I'm still getting heat if I set the control lever, but along with the heat comes a lot of mist and foggy greasy windows.

After heavy thought and consideration, I've decided I'm not ready to give up this car.

After reading through the archives, I've found there are a few ways of doing this job. Some folks have used a "Chainsaw" method that involves cutting part of the housing away. Other's do it the "right" way and remove the heating unit.

I'm of the school of thought that likes to do things the "right" way, but I would like to see more info on the Chainsaw method, as I wasn't able to find many details on it in the archives.

I'm not a total stranger when it comes to this, as I did replace the heater fan motor in November of 2002 in this very car. When I did it, it took me over 4 days of (almost) continuous work. (Granted, I was younger, had never really worked behind the dash prior, didn't know nearly as much about these cars as I do now, and I couldn't work once the sun was down.)




Okay, now for some basic questions:

How much more work is replacing the heater core then replacing the heater fan motor (the "right" way on both accounts)?

Is there a recommended brand of heater core, or is this something I can get from a local Radiator shop?

What all connects to the heater control unit from the Firewall? This car does have AC.

Should I go ahead and just replace the Heater Fan motor and resistor even though they show no signs of quitting? I replaced the thing 3 years ago with a brand new motor and resistor. My desire of not wanting to tear this deep into the dash again for as long as possible tells me to replace both, my pocket book tells me to hold off on it if I can.

If I can't replace the Fan motor, is there anything I can check to extend its life?

If you have any links to pictures or past threads about replacing heater cores in 240s, please post them as well.

Thanks as always, and sorry for the long winded post.