my 91 240 heater has two settings.. HOT and HOTTER!

i read that you just replaced your heater valve..was it a messy nasty job that spilled anti-freeze all over the carpet..any tips or advice?

did you buy the "new" designed valve or an original replacement?

thanks for info

I installed the new style valve in the 84 240 that I used to have, and I would recommend it. It think it's a better type of valve, and won't fail like all of the original ones do.

As for being difficult to install, it might be harder than installing an original style valve, but it is still an easy job. IMHO, the "difficulty" of installation should not change your mind about it.

When I did the job, I drained the whole system first, and then got the usual rags and newspaper ready inside. Didn't even need them.

Greg

Hi,
I've also installed both types of valves. I second Don's comments on the original being easier. I've had good success with adapting the new style
but the second one I did the valve isn't working properly. I'm probably
going to end up doing the valve again with an original style. Try using
a cooler thermostat in the car. That may help a little. I've used the
82 degree thermostat. The car still made lots of heat but ran a little
bit cooler. Good hose removal tools help alot.

Using Don's suggestion for pinching off the heater hoses in the engine compartment helps. I then put shop towels about three layers deep
under the valve area and that usually takes care of most all the anti
freeze that comes out.

Hey, your car is a 1991? That's the first year of the new style valve to
my knowledge. The new style valve is also pretty straight forward to install.
Supposedly the new style valve has more range adjustment. You could probably install either valve. I don't know though, never looked at a 91. Wish you well.
Dave 82 242ti 280k mi.

I've used both types of valves. The original valve is much easier to install than the new valve because the new valve includes a a mounting bracket, new (different shaped) hoses, and a new (and different) cable.

To minimize the spilled antifreeze, squeeze shut the heater hoses using C-clamps or something similar.
--
Don Foster (near Cape Cod, MA)