Evaporator core Replacing

I guess there is no other way around it then to take the whole dash out to replace it?

 

Correct. Dash comes out. It’s not hard to do, just tedious. If you don’t have a zip gun you’re going to want to get one. I’ve done them in less than 7 hours by myself before. With somebody helping it can be done in about half the time.

 

Is it leaking? The expansion valve is accessible from the firewall. It could be leaking.

 

I agree, it can take up to 7 hrs including evaporator swap. It's not that bad of a job. Just insist on being left alone and put your phone on airplane mode. You can still take pics, but you won't get distracted.

You will find connectors not plugged into anything. Mark those as soon as you find them. They will confuse you when it comes time to reassemble. Most parts will only fit one way, so it's really just a simple, big puzzle.

 

I did use a leak detector sniffer, held it up to the drain hose, started beeping like crazy, never did check the expansion valve.

 

Got a UV light and some yellow glasses? If dye is in the system the tube will glow green under the light. It will look like predator blood.

 

I've found more leaks using soap and water.

Like said above, check fittings 1st. Evaporator leaks are rare.

 

Depends on the maker. Toyota does have their evap core leakers out there but not like Dodge.

 

Ya, not a fan of dye.

 

Here is some help for the expansion valve that is sticking out of the firewall. I think it is one bolt in the center between the two nipples and it will come right out through the firewall.

 

Zip gun ??? Small electric screw/socket driver???

 

No, it's for quickly installing zip ties.

 

Yes. Zip gun is slang for an electric impact driver. I use my small 1/4 Matco and 3/8 like they are going out of style. Love those tools.

 

I have pics on my old phone of the last couple 4runners we did. Let me see if I can find my old phone and post up some pics.