Changing the heater core requires complete removal of the dash panel and plenum box. To do this you have to remove the steering wheel, steering column, evacuate and recharge the refrigerant system and drain the radiator. I would only consider changing the heater core if it is physically leaking into the passenger compartment. If the problem is heat transfer to the HVAC system only, the problem is more likely with the blend doors.
No, the entire dash has to be removed.
A bad smell coming from the heater in a vehicle can indicate a bad heater core. One way to check this out is to see if the smell is worse when you sit in the passenger seat. If it is, there is a good chance the heater core is bad.
Buy a kit at Wal-Mart or auto parts comes with adaptors, fittings, and instructions
if you got antifreeze on your windshield when you turn the heater on, it's bad
Make sure coolant is at proper level Change thermostat Check to see that heater core is not restricted, plugged or airbound Make sure coolant is circulating
The heater core is inside the hvac housing behind the dash.
About $600
Yes
The heater core is inside the hvac housing under the dash.
Do you live in an area that you need your heater?
between 6 and 8 hours
No, the entire dash has to be removed.
Check the vacuum operated valve at the hose going to the heater core.
The Haynes Jeep Cherokee 1984 - 1996 book has 7 different diagrams which show how to do that repair.
No. one heater core, two airflow control doors. Called blend doors, very prone to breaking.
Yes, if it is leaking and the coolant level is low.
Disconnect the hoses in and out. Then run a garden hose with low pressure through it. Once the soolant is clear the core is flushed.