INADEQUATE HEAT CONDITION HEATER CORE P/N MAY REPAIR

VEHICLES AFFECTED: 1988 W CARS WITH C41 OR C60

Some of the above vehicles, built prior to the following VIN breakpoints may experience inadequate heat condition due to a missing separator in the heater core.

If a vehicle exhibits this condition the following diagnostic procedure should be used:

1. Run the vehicle until the thermostat opens. The vehicle must be at normal operating temperature.

Note: This may be accomplished by (a) physically driving the vehicle to achieve operating temperature or (b) letting the vehicle idle in the service area and visually monitor the coolant flow or record the coolant temperature using a thermometer via the radiator cap opening. If method (b) is used, it may be necessary to block off the radiator to restrict air flow to aid in achieving operating temperature.

2. The remaining procedure must be conducted at 15 DEG - 26 DEG Celcius (60-80 degrees Fahrenheit) ambient temperature in order to properly diagnose the heater core performance.

Note: Conducting this test at 15 DEG - 26 DEG (60-80 degrees Fahrenheit) will insure proper performance of the heater core in cooler ambience.

3. Set control to HEATER mode.

4. Set fan speed on HIGH.

5. Engine speed at IDLE.

6. Check the vehicle heater outlet temperature for several minutes with a thermometer.

Note: The outlet temperature should be a minimum of 28 DEG Celcius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) higher than the ambient temperature.

If outlet temperature is less than 28 DEG Celcius (50 degrees Fahrenheit) above ambient, the heater core should be replaced with P/N 3091147.

Division VIN Breakpoint -------- -------------- Pontiac JF249646

Buick J1476926

Oldsmobile JD351794

General Motors bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, not a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform those technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, do not assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See a General Motors dealer servicing your brand of General Motors vehicle for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.