Back Flushing the Heater Core in my 1997 Jeep TJ

Sometimes it gets cold in the southeast of Texas. In Winter 2021, it froze – I mean really froze! That’s how I discovered that TDSR’s heat doesn’t really blow really hot. This seems to be common in TJs and it’s often because of blockages/buildup in the heater core. Improving things is a simple matter – flush out the heater core, usually by doing a “back flush” to send water (and debris) out the way water usually comes in.

This video gives a quick overview on how I back flushed TDSR’s heater core. After I loaded this video to YouTube I gotta a good chance to get the Jeep up to temperature and try the heat. It's much warmer now AND things didn’t seem to get worse. Win! Win!


1/13/2022 Update: Heat has been great all winter so far. The flush really made a lasting difference.

Project TJ is the chronicling of working on my 1997 Jeep Wrangler. It's the SE version of a TJ with a 2.5L four cylinder and a standard transmission. At the time of making this video, the Jeep had ~204,400 miles on it.

I hope you enjoy! Subscribe to the channel and if you’re interested, you can support me on BuyMeACoffee at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/edvancise

Parts (some links are Amazon Affiliate links):
• 10 Feet PVC- 5/8" ID Clear Vinyl Tubing (https://amzn.to/3qb8mXT)
• 5ft x 3/4" ID Clear Vinyl Tubing (https://amzn.to/3IXe2gx)
• Hose Clamp Pliers (https://amzn.to/32agKym)
• Zerex Original Green 50/50 Prediluted Ready-to-Use Antifreeze/Coolant (https://amzn.to/3mAZIRx)

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Intro (0:00)
Getting Prepared (1:05)
Removing the Hoses (3:10)
Flush it, baby (6:35)
Putting it back together (9:36)

Disclaimers:
This video is NOT sponsored by any of the brands mentioned throughout this video or video description. All thoughts mentioned are my own. Some links provided are affiliate links. They do not cost you anything, but I make a small percentage from the sale. Honesty is key on my channel, thank you for supporting me!
I am a Do It Yourself, also known as DIY, mechanic. I am NOT a professional mechanic. I do not have any formal training in the automotive field. I assume no liability for anything you choose to do to your car/vehicle or equipment before or after watching one of my videos. All DIY repairs or modifications you perform are made at your own risk. Sometimes, even if you've done everything the right way, you can destroy or damage one or more things on your car or equipment. You must understand this, but by leveraging knowledge and patience, the probability of encountering one or more problems can be reduced.
Also, if for some unfortunate reason, I do give incorrect instructions and something breaks because you followed my instructions, I will NOT reimburse or pay in any way for whatever cost that may be incurred due to following my wrong instructions.
Lastly, please don't do anything to your vehicle or equipment unless you yourself feel comfortable and confident in doing so.