Re: 99 Concorde heater core replacement

Road Runner wrote:
> Yes this is accurate. The air conditioning system must be emptied
(recovered 
> with machine) and then evacuated and recharged afterward. You will want
to 
> replace the A/C eva****ator at the same time if it shows any signs of
leakage 
> as they are very prone to failure. 

I agree with Road Runner - he beat me to the suggestion that you replace 
the eva****ator while you're in there.  The eva****ators in these LH cars 
are known for failing (just did my '99 Concorde evap. last year - did 
the work myself).  The dash has to be completely removed to do either 
the heater core or the eva****ator.  Since, as RR says, the a.c. has to 
be broken open, the only added charge of replacing the evap. at the same 
time is the cost of the evap. part itself - IIRC, $200-300 depending on 
the dealer.  (If a competent shop does the work, they should be able to 
re-use the old ac***ulator/dryer.)

Since you mention timing *belt* - not chain - you must have the 3.2L 
engine (and not the 2.7L engine) - is that right?  Be sure to also 
replace the timing belt idler/tensioner pulley too.  Gates makes a 
"timing belt kit" - contains the timing belt and the idler pulley - just 
over $100 for the kit.  I recommend going Gates or OEM on the water pump.

Bill Putney
(To reply by e-mail, replace the last letter of the alphabet in my 
address with the letter 'x')