Just wondering why a heater valve would be removed from a stock engine but the heater hoses connected to each other with elbow connectors and such? Currently this is how my car is set up, and this is the way I bought it! The vacuum line is sealed up and lying next to the p/s runners. I can post pics for further clarification if needed but I was just wondering if I need the heater valve and if I do, where can I buy one from? Also do they go bad or something?

 

The heater valve is there just to shot down hot water circulation to the heater core to improve the AC efficiency. You don't need it perse, my 88 non AC doesn't even have one.

 

I too ran without one to clean up the underhood area a bit. it will mean that you're constantly circulating coolant through the heater core (the way it was done for many years prior), but thats what windows and t-tops are for

 

You could move the valve to a location that's less intrusive:

 

Thanks guys, I like the idea of having one but installing it out of the way like twin_turbo did. Could somebody provide me with the info I need to:

A. purchase a new valve assembly (are these still available from GM dealerships)

B. how do I install it near the passenger fender well, (do I need new lengths of hose or additional items)

Thanks for any and all help.

 

i put one in like ghettocruiser.