Escort Van heater

[bongos]

I've got a '96 escort van which has recently started to mist up all the time when the heater is turned up. This has coincided with it using alot of coolant water.

As long as the heating is turned to cool then there doesn't seem to be any water loss but if I try to demist the front window during wet spells by putting the heater onto hot there is a noticeable drop in the water level.

I've just put 1.5 litres in it now which isn't good - especially as until recently it has never required any water in the 2 years i've had it. There also seems to be a burning smell and even a little smoke coming from the vents but this is only when the temperature setting is turned up from cold.

I'm guessing that there is some sort of problem with circulation to the heater element but is this likely to cause this water loss and burning smell?

Anyone got any ideas

 

[dave1h]

sounds like heater matrix to me..

 

[bongos]

Cheers dave. Is that an easy inexpensive job - or am I going to end up out of pocket

What does the heater matrix do? Have to admit to only knowing a little about the heating system

 

[dave1h]

the heater matrix supplies hot air into the cabin area of the car via an electric fan (heater motor). its filled with coolant from the car.

there is a valve on the heater pipes which is operated when you turn the temprature dial in the car preventing coolant flowing through it. this might explane why the windows mist up when you turn it to hot.

not sure on this model but can be an expensive replacment as somtimes requires dashboard removal.

hope this helps.

 

[Stivino]

Sounds like the heater matrix (radiator) is leaking. You could always by-pass the heater matrix under the bonnet, until you manage to get it replaced. It's summer time so you won't suffer too much.

 

[bongos]

looks like a trip to the garage then

thanks for all advice.

 

[^neo^]

pretty sure you can do the escort matrix's in situ

 

[efiste2]

May be worth lifting the floormat and insulation out of the van, so you can see if the coolant loss has got into the floorpan area, where (if left long enough) will cause the rust to set in. Also it will give you a chance to dry out the insulation pads too.......and will stop the van smelling like a fishmongers!!