Mechanic crushed my heater core fittings
 

The two heater core fittings coming out of the firewall were crush by my mechanic who overtightened the hose clamps.

Any tricks to straighten them out? I read about using a socket and turning it inside the fitting to straighten them out.

If not could these lines be replaced without replacing the heater core? I see that they're clamped on at the heater core with a clamp each.

I'm trying not to replace the whole heater core.

Thanks for the help.

Re: Mechanic crushed my heater core fittings
 

Shitty!!

Re: Mechanic crushed my heater core fittings
 

You can try pushing a socket into them, but, be careful.

Also, why isn't the mechanic paying for this?

These little things are very easy to screw up. I've done it twice. :thud:

Re: Mechanic crushed my heater core fittings
 

was it a shop or a friend ? if it was a shop sue them and you can try with smaller diameter pipes and work your way up till its straight

Re: Mechanic crushed my heater core fittings
 

maybe a pair of needlenose pliars but put them in, then carefully open to push out the low spots...though being pointy, it could cause damage if you're not careful. Depends how bad they're crushed.

Re: Mechanic crushed my heater core fittings
 

If there is a leak at the clamps already, chances are you will not succeed to bring the pipes to their original shape.

Re: Mechanic crushed my heater core fittings
 

Ok, thanks for all the help.

The mechanic already closed up shop so there's nothing I can do.

Tried to wiggle some sockets and hammer/tap gently. Looks better but not perfect. If they leak again I will have to replace the core.

Re: Mechanic crushed my heater core fittings
 

damn.

I don't think you have to replace the entire heater core, but, it will need to come to do anything with the tubes.