Hello! I have been a lurker for quite a while now without an account but I think it is time that I finally get in here and ask my own questions.

I am currently about to install a new heater core on my 1997 cherokee (4.0 litre). I have the common leak under the cowl where the wiper motors are and the fresh air intake. I am planning on sealing said leak but in the meantime I thought I might as well replace the heater core. In the process is there anything that I should think about replacing in the dash when everything is deconstructed so I don't have to go through this whole mess again in due time? Also any tips or tricks?

 

My main concern would be the ac evaporator and heater core tubes putting the box back in. Make sure not to get them hung up on the firewall or you can damage them. The ac drain pokes thru the firewall a bit so if the bottom gets hung up, that could be why. Inspect the vacuum line going into the firewall as they get brittle with age and can break. When they do its usually just inside the firewall and can play hard to get. Other than flapper door seals, it shouldnt be that bad. Just time consuming.

Label everything. Take pictures if you have to. One thing that has been overlooked by others are the grounds at the lower corners of the dash. Very important. Dont forget anything, actually.