Leaky heater valve

[JMinNJ]

While replacing a faulty ignition switch I noticed a drop of antifreeze on the heater control valve. The PO had to notice since he tried to seal it with silicone. He neglected to mention it to me.

Will be ordering a new one soon. Are they really that difficult to replace?
My car is non-AC will that make it easier?
You can see the green drop and the attempted silicone patch job in the
Photo.

John

[Mike W.]

While replacing a faulty ignition switch I noticed a drop of antifreeze on the heater control valve. The PO had to notice since he tried to seal it with silicone. He neglected to mention it to me.

Will be ordering a new one soon. Are they really that difficult to replace?
My car is non-AC will that make it easier?
You can see the green drop and the attempted silicone patch job in the
Photo.

John

Yes they are really that difficult to replace. Clearance is so tight you can't get a box end wrench on it, open end only. Having done several now on Es 12, 21 and 24 I can even tell you it doesn't get easier with practice. And all because they didn't use a high temp rated O ring in there. A/C makes no difference. A 9MM wrench and patience. Ibuprofen later for your back is optional.