DeTomaso Mailing List: May 98, Message #3

-- [ From: forest * EMC.Ver #2.5.3 ] --

Nancy asked about the heater tubes.
These run inside the console and are connected to the infamous hoses we
have all been told thousands of times to change regularly. Being
somewhat rebellious, I have installed silicone hoses which are supposed
to last "forever". Imagine my consternation when, after driving from Las
Vegas to BFE Arizona, coolant all of a sudden began pouring out onto my
right foot. Fortunately the engine had just been started so it was cold
coolant. After several minutes of cursing about so called forever hoses
I pulled the side panel off the console to find two perfectly good hoses
and coolant dripping from the heater casing. Starting the engine
immediately caused a waterfall out the heating vents. Fortunately I have
entered the car in the Las Vegas racing events in years past so all that
was needed was to reach under and close both isolation valves. Now that
I am home it is time to pull the dash again to repair whatever has
ruptured in the heater core. I believe that it is prudent to replace the
heater tubes also if it is possible. I'll let you all know how it works
out.