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TR 3 Heater cleanup

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mapleaf

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I just removed the heater from my TR3A to service a squeaky fan motor and was wondering what I could do to improve the appearance of the grungy heater core. I am going to flush, pressure test and blow the dust off it but would like to do something about the three small areas where the fins are crushed and hopefully paint the outer core as long as it doesn't affect it's efficiency. Any tips would be appreciated.
Also, does anyone know if the original ribbed hose is available?
Thanks
 
You can get little fin combs at any good auto a/c parts house. They can be used to straighten the fins out. Other than that....
 
I'm sure Frank will chime in when he gets back on, but he put together a very nice reference on restoring these heaters, its right here on the BCF Wiki:
Smiths Heater Restoration

Kudos to Frank and all others who add to that database, very handy.

Randy
 
The Roadster Factory sells the correct ribbed heater hose, 602057. You might also need the firewall barb connection, 601950, and gasket, 601951; mine were pretty grungy. Just don't expect <span style="font-style: italic">too</span> much heat!
 
I got a pair of hoses from Moss. They say on their website that the original ribbed type are not available, but when they arrived, they were ribbed. Their part number is 635-050. You'll need some black wrinkle paint for the heater.
 
Mapleaf,

Where in Ontario are you. I am in Ottawa (suburbs)
 
"Any tips would be appreciated."



after you read my article if you have additional questions send me a pm. whatever you do, when painting the core just apply enough to darken the surface - you don't want a heavy build up which would defeat the heating function. a radiator shop can do it all for a modest cost.
 
Thanks guys, between the info you've posted and Frank's great restoration article I don't think it will be a difficult job. Fortunately, all the fan motor needed was a few drops of oil and the rest is basically cosmetic. I'll get back to you if I run into any problems. Thanks again.
BTW Adrio, I'm about 20 minutes south of Peterborough.
 
Be careful on the pressure test of your heater core--other BCF members have reported overzealous radiator shops putting too much pressure in the core and watching it expand like an accordion. Be sure to tell your shop it is only for a 4 pound system, and if possible, clamp it up prior to the test to avoid any expansion.
 
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