I replaced my HCV almost 2 years ago due to a leak. Now it's leaking coolant again from the same area. I replaced a hose that goes from the block to the HCV (coolant intake) since I thought it might be that, but the coolant leak is still there.

I found that if I set the climate control dial to COLD (leaving the AC off), the HCV closes and it begins to leak from the little lever.



If I set the climate control dial to HOT (leaving the AC off), it allows coolant through the HCV but it DOES NOT leak... or maybe it does, but it's not noticeable.

I will replace the HCV yet again. I will also replace the hose that goes from the HCV to the heater core. I will keep the hose from the block to the HCV since it is new.

My question is: should I leave climate control dial to HOT from now on?

 

if you replace it again and it leaks I would suggest finding an electronic valve and wire up a switch to operate it. (simple circuit, if you need a diagram I can make one) If that same part keeps going bad and there's no reason it should I would stop using said part and make an alternative. maybe switch brands if there are different ones offered for that same part.

that HCV is Bowden cable operated correct?

 

I don't think so. It has a paper clip looking thing that opens/closes the valve.

Pic:



So should I leave the Climate Control on HOT (open valve) to stop the new one from failing again? Unfortunately I can only find one brand (the same one that I got almost 2 years ago)