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pickle16
New User
Jan 21, 2013, 7:01 PM
Post #1 of 6
(1991 views)
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07 Chevy Uplander. When idling, cold air comes out the vents. Hit the accelerator, immediate hot air. Let off the gas, air goes cold after about a minute. Hit the gas, hot air again.
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Discretesignals
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Jan 21, 2013, 7:09 PM
Post #2 of 6
(1974 views)
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Re: Heater problems
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With the engine cold remove the radiator cap and check the coolant level in the radiator. You might have coolant leak somewhere.
Since we volunteer our time and knowledge, we ask for you to please follow up when a problem is resolved.
(This post was edited by Discretesignals on Jan 21, 2013, 7:16 PM)
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pickle16
New User
Jan 21, 2013, 8:12 PM
Post #3 of 6
(1931 views)
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Re: Heater problems
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I checked the coolant level and it was low so if nothing else, I at least was able to address that issue. I have filled the resevoir and it is idling now. I am heading back out to check it again. Thanks.
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MarineGrunt
Enthusiast
Jan 21, 2013, 8:55 PM
Post #4 of 6
(1919 views)
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Re: Heater problems
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Since the coolant level was low you more than likely have a leak somewhere so keep an eye on it. Depending on where the leak is you can sometimes see it just by running the engine and looking around. You have to be careful though by watching out for moving parts such as the belt and fan. A leak isn't always visible. The best way to look for leaks is by pressuring testing the system. A pressure tester can be borrowed from most local parts stores. You just have to put down a deposit for the cost of the tool and it's returned to you once you return the tool. Pressure testers aren't all that expensive so you could even look into buying one. I flashlight and an inspection mirror may come in handy. Check all cooling system hoses, radiator, overflow tank, water pump, lower intake gasket, and head gasket.
You didn't mention that it was overheating so it must not have been too low. Maybe it was just low and needed topped off. Coolant normally doesn't just disappear though so keep a close eye on it. If it's not parked in the garage a piece of cardboard underneath may make it easier to tell if you have any coolant dripping on the ground.
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pickle16
New User
Jan 21, 2013, 10:56 PM
Post #5 of 6
(1909 views)
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Re: Heater problems
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Yep. I had noticed a small spot in the driveway over the past few weeks getting bigger . Should have paid more attention, but after looking with a flashlight, there appears to be a small leak in the hose coming out of the top of the engine. I'll be able to check it out tomorrow. Again, thanks.
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MarineGrunt
Enthusiast
Jan 21, 2013, 11:19 PM
Post #6 of 6
(1904 views)
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Re: Heater problems
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Looks like you found your problem and is an easy enough fix. The hardest part, which is still pretty easy, is getting the pliers at the right angle to get the hose clamp off. They make some cable operated hose clamp pliers that work great but regular pliers, needle nose, or channel locks work just fine. Just drain the fluid, replace the hose, retighten drain cock, top off, and you should be good to go. After you're finished continue checking the coolant level over the next few days just to be safe. I'm not sure if the coolant has ever been flushed and changed but now might be a good time to do it since you have to drain some of it anyways. I think they recommend flushing at 150k but I personally think that's too long to go and flush mine about every 50-75k.
Glad to hear you found the problem.
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