1999 Ford F 150 Recently Replaced Leaking Heater Core On F150 4 6l Now Cannot

1999 FORD F-150
83,000 MILES
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ROBERTPRESS
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I recently replaced a leaking heater core on my 1999 Ford F150 (4.6L). Now I cannot figure out how to re-connect the "quick connectors" Dorman part # 800-403
I've tried to re-connect with the center locking clip and gaskets attached to the new heater core. (I also tried it with some WD40)
I've tried to reconnect it with the gaskets and locking clip attached to the black clip at the end of each hose.
I have the disconnect 5/8 tool and even tried to reconnect with that although I cannot get it to snap in? What am I missing

All I seem to be doing is pushing the new heater core and bending the 2 In/Out pipes.
Dec 3, 2012 at 6:40 PM
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KHLOW2008
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The connectors are supposed to self lock when you push it in. Push the connector in as far as you can and gently pry the locking tab outwards with a screwdriver. Ensure the O'ring is not too dry. A little lubricant such as rubber greae would help.
Dec 3, 2012 at 7:07 PM
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ROBERTPRESS
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Should I have the locking clip and O rings attached the the tube on the heater core? and then follow your guidenace
Or should insert them into each hose along with the locking clip and then do what your saying?
Dec 3, 2012 at 7:14 PM
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KHLOW2008
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The clips should be on the heater core.
The tips of the tube are expanded and you would not be able to fit in if the clips are inserted into the hoses first.

Install clip onto heater core.
O'ring should be inside the hose fitting.
Plug hose onto the heater core pipe and push as far as it can go.
Pry the clip outwards to get it to lock.
Pull at hose to endure it is locked and does not diengage.
The fitting would seem a litle loose and when you push the hose, it would move slightly inwards but that is ok. It should not disengage when you pull at it.


Dec 3, 2012 at 7:29 PM
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KHLOW2008
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Sorry, about this.

The O'ring should be on the heater pipe after the clip is installed.
Dec 3, 2012 at 7:32 PM
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ROBERTPRESS
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Thank you very much, I plan to try it again tomorrow 12/4
Dec 3, 2012 at 8:39 PM
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KHLOW2008
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You're welcome.

Keep us posted.
Dec 3, 2012 at 8:54 PM
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CJ MEDEVAC
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JUST ANOTHER OPTION

THESE CRAP ADAPTERS YOU SPEAK OF, ARE ALSO MADE OF POT METAL-----WON'T BE LONG, IT'LL GO TO "POT"-----YOU'LL HAVE TO THEN REMOVE THE CRUMBLING PART (MAYBE IT WON'T BREAK OFF IN THE HOLE!)

LET'S GO BACK TO THE GOOD OLE DAYS WITH YOUR HOSES----THIS IS THE TICKET!

http://shop.advanceautoparts.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product_heater-hose-connectors--5-8-inch-hose-x-3-8-inch-npt-x-2-3-4-inch-long-nipple-dorman--help_5014077-p?searchTerm=3%2F4+mipt+x+5%2F8+hose+adapters

MY EXAMPLE ABOVE MAY NOT BE THE SIZE YOU NEED.....BUT THEY DO MAKE 'EM IN ALMOST ANY CONFIGURATION...EVEN 45s AND 90s IF THAT MAKES IT ANY EZier TO GET TO!

SIMPLY SCREW OUT THE "CRAP", SOME YOUNG ENGINEER CAME UP WITH, ON BOTH ENDS OF THE HOSE

USE SOME ANTI-SEIZE OR PIPE DOPE ON THE REPLACEMENT PART'S THREADS AND SCREW 'EM IN TIGHT

NOW----NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE---YOU CAN FIND REGULAR OLE HEATER HOSE TO FIX A FUTURE PROBLEM!

MO MORE EXPENSIVE HOSE "ROYALTIES" HELPING SOME YOUNG ENGINEER MAKE HIS EXUBERANT HOUSE AND CAR PAYMENTS

ALL YOU NEED FROM HERE ON OUT IS "HOSE" AND "HOSE CLAMPS"

GOSH, I CAN TAKE YOU BACK TO YESTERYEAR, WITH JUST A FEW LINES..........BACK WHEN HOSE REPLACEMENT WAS FAST AND CHEAP!

THE MEDIC
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Dec 4, 2012 at 4:31 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.