heater core question

[_smoker_]

Straight to the question: have any of you driven with a leaky heater core for an extended period of time?

I'm not afraid of the work, but I'm honestly not sure if I can find the time to do it before heading to PA (600 miles round trip) for thanksgiving. I get a nice coolant odor for about five seconds when I turn the blower motor on. I haven't seen a noticeable drop in the coolant level in the ~200 miles I've put on the van since I bought it.

My gut says I'll be fine, but I figured I'd check with the experts before I set off with my family in a ticking time bomb.
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I like Volkswagens.

[metropoj]

I've got about 6000 kms on a slow leak heater core.

I can say slow because I smell the sweetness in the air every now and then and I do consume a little antifreeze, never seen the leak however. Motor is tired so very possible I'm burning most of the leak ...

I guess it all depends on how bad the leak is. I have bigger issues to tackle before I replace that heater core personally.

I'd at least be prepared that if it does Niagara Falls on you that you can stop the flow to / from the heater core with crimping clamps or something to get you home safe.

[bluefirefly]

I had the same problem for 2 years and when I replaced both cores (front and rear) I didn't find a real leak.... no wet carpet or soaked floor.
Of course, I am happy to have everything new now....

I think the smell is a nice warning.
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86 Syncro Tintop G60
work in progress ...as always!

[1vw4x4]

Many people are drivng right now with leaking heater cores. As soon
as I get in a vanagon I can usually smell one, where many people can't. I tell
them and they don't believe me until I show them the rear floor all wet.
You should be fine for the trip, but health wise I would keep some
venting in the cab at all times.

[kamzcab86]