KITT87

I’m looking for a brass replacement heater core to replace the one that just died on my 1987 Firebird. I understand that OEM/NOS heater cores are $$$, I’m fine with a used one as long as it’s brass and isn’t leaking. Bonus points if you’re willing to cut a deal to a broke college student.

Looking for shipped to or pick up within 75 miles of 24141, Virginia.

topduarte

iTrader: (8)

Pic or part # u r seeking

roadthrills

Don't believe the repeated old wives tales of aluminum cores.........if that's what you're worried about.

KITT87

I’ve read enough bad about them to want to take my time to seek out a brass one. Has the aluminum one worked well in your experience? Would be going on a daily driver for me. I loved how well the heat worked before it started leaking.

KITT87

Sorry I should’ve included that to begin with. It is #10 in the illustration, GM part #19131987

topduarte

iTrader: (8)

I think I have one. I'll check tonight

roadthrills

Well, my wifes 2005 F150 is almost 20 years old with around 230000 miles on it and the factory original aluminum heater core is still working. Ages ago I had a 1986 grand am, it was about 10 years old and had 100000 miles on it when the heater core started to leak. When I got it pulled out......it had an aluminum core with molded plastic tanks........one of the plastic pipe fittings has split.......core was fine. Not to mention that aluminum cores disperse heat BETTER than copper/brass.......the heater will actually start transferring heat quicker. I see no reason to worry about aluminum, just make sure the overall build quality looks good.

72buickgs

Every 3 years or so, flush your cooling system with the heater controls set to heat. Be sure to use ONLY distilled water mixed 50/50 with your anti-freeze. Been doing that for 20 years with no problems nor corrosion.
Nothing wrong with aluminum heater core or radiators following my suggestion.

KITT87

Sounds like a good idea, I’ll put it on my maintenance schedule. I have done a flush more or less every year I have owned the car (since 2021) mainly because parts of the cooling system keep breaking . Most were factory original and very tired.

topduarte

iTrader: (8)

I checked and dont have one.

KITT87

Thanks for looking