F 150 2WD V8-4.6L VIN 8 (2009)
Heater Core: Testing and Inspection
Climate Control System
Heater Core
1. NOTE: If a heater core leak is suspected, the heater core must be tested by following the Plugged Heater Core Component Test before the heater
core pressure test. Carry out a system inspection by checking the heater system thoroughly as follows:
Inspect for evidence of coolant leakage at the heater hose to heater core attachments. A coolant leak in the heater hose could follow the heater core
tube to the heater core and appear as a leak in the heater core.
2. NOTE: Spring-type clamps are installed as original equipment. Installation and overtightening of non-specified clamps can cause leakage at the
heater hose connection and damage the heater core.
Check the integrity of the heater hose clamps.
Heater Core - Plugged
1. Check to see that the engine coolant is at the correct level.
2. Start the engine and turn on the heater.
3. When the engine coolant reaches operating temperature, using a suitable temperature measuring device, check the core inlet and outlet hoses to see
if they are hot.
4. If the outlet only is not hot:
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the heater core may have an air pocket.
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the heater core may be plugged.
5. If the inlet only is not hot:
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the thermostat may not be working correctly.
Heater Core - Pressure Test
WARNING: Before disconnecting any heater water hoses, shut OFF the engine and wait until engine is fully cool. Failure to comply with this
warning may result in serious injury or burns from hot liquid escaping from the engine cooling system.
Use the Pressure Test Kit to carry out the pressure test.
1. NOTE: Due to space limitations, a bench test may be necessary for pressure testing.
Drain the coolant from the cooling system.
2. Disconnect the heater hoses from the heater core.
3. Install a short piece of heater hose, approximately 101 mm (4 in) long on each heater core tube.
4. Fill the heater core and heater hoses with water and install the plug BT-7422-B and the adapter BT-7422-A from the Pressure Test Kit. Secure the
heater hoses, plug and adapter with hose clamps.
5. Attach the pump and gauge assembly from the Pressure Test Kit to the adapter.
6. Close the bleed valve at the base of the gauge. Pump 138 kPa (20 psi) of air pressure into the heater core.
