Hi,

Working on the AC system and noticed that blower air is coming around/through the foam at the front of the Evap core. Is this normal for there to be some "leakage" of air here? Or is it time to replace the foam? It looks original, so has probably shrunk/dried out/deteriorated over time. I'm including a picture showing where I'm feeling air with the blower on high. Doesn't seem to be any air leakage from the bottom half, but the foam is thicker there.

Thanks!

 

Most likely it's time to replace the foam.....
What I'd be interested to know is how good is "the force of air" inside the car?
Mine was not that good. I checked everything...ducts, duct connections, fan, etc., and determined that there was possibly a clogged evaporator core. Sure enough, it looked like it hadn't been cleaned in 34 years....But cleaning the leaves and other debris out of it was a little bit of a challenge, so I did this modification. I have great airflow now, and none of it is wasted in the engine compartment.

https://www.firebirdnation.com/threa...1#post-1575791

 

Thanks for the reply, Roorancher. The airflow in the car is pretty good. I don't think I would have noticed anything if the AC wasn't being serviced. That said, it sounds like there shouldn't be any leakage and it's time for some new foam!

 

As i recall, the foam is kinda stiff....mine was low mileage) but air stil lleaked out as it just doesnt seal well over there....especialtyl if you put a new evap in.the shape I beleive is slightly off compared to OE cores...... I put some of the 3M butyl?? stuff to cover the hole. Worked great! it wont degrade like foam and you dont have to open the case up.

 

Thank you for the suggestion!

 

Funny to see this. I just noticed this same thing on my TA the other night when testing a new blower resister/relay setup. Had the evap out just 2 winters ago and cleaned it out at that time so it shouldn't be clogged. I'll be trying to seal it up with some of that tape.