Forum:
had developed a small leak in the heater matrix which I have fixed with radseal, but I thought I would take a look in the garage service manual which I have managed to aquire just to see the difficulty of replacement. Not a great deal of use because I can't even find a mention of the matrix anywhere!!
Anyone out there done the job and could give me a few pointers?
many thanks, Robbo.
Heater Matrix
Hi I am breaking my Daihatsu and still have working heater matrix. DO you want me to tell u how to get it out as i have to get my out neway to scrap shell! Maybe you will want to buy it aswell!!!
Yes.
Yes done mine. I suggest you dont consider any repair or second hand matrix. The original Diahatsu matrix as factory fitted is brass and it rots at the joints. Any repairs will not last more than a few months and you will then need to do the job again. If you search this site form 'heater matrix' you will find my earlier posts about matrix replacement and a supplier. You can buy a new replacement matrix for about £60 ... diahatsu charge about £300 for matrix plus fitting. The supplier is in Redditch Worces and will mail order ... get their tele number by searching as above.
The task of replacing a matrix is easy but tiresome. Task is easier if you remove both front seats. You need to remove the radio, then raise the whole dashboard, detach the matrix pipes at the engine compartment and then access the heater unit. The most difficult task is finding the fixing screws to undo the dashboard/heater unit - there are visible screws on the side by the doors, screws hidden under the plastic covers on each side of the windscreen, hidden screws behind the dashboard air vents and a hidden screw under the plastic cover holding the dials in the top center of the dashboard. Other screws are obvious but difficult to reach.
If you’re agile you will do the job in about 5 to 6 hours.
NOTE ... be careful not to damage the heater control. The heater switch is easily broken whilst dislodging the heater unit. The switch mechanism is mechanical - it took me some time to repatriate the switch bits!
I recollect a member to this site said he did the job without removing the dashboard .... I dont believe it! You cant access heater unit without releasing the dashboard.
Matrix
The company you're after are called Motorads, in Redditch as Mace says, and they're on 01527 65182. I paid about £65 for mine, all in with delivery as well. The job is straightforward, but a real pain in the arse. Be careful when putting it all back together, I must have snagged some wiring when I did mine, as my centre console and stereo did not work once it was all done. Also, for some bizarre reason, I lost the intermittent wipe on my wipers - the normal and double speed worked, but the intermittent sweep packed up - go figure.
heater matrix
Hi all that neaded repairing in mine was the o ring inside the plunger a good clean inside as it was bad. but no leaks and comming up a year now since i did it. I could feel mine was leaking around the valve could not see it and did have to remove the whole lot dashboard and all as stated on here before so good luck