Will this front heater core fit my 1987 Vanagon, and do I need any special modifications for installation?

Yes, this heavy-duty all-aluminum front heater core is designed as a direct replacement for all 1983-91 watercooled Vanagon models, so it will fit your 1987 without the need for special modifications. The unit includes installation hardware and helpful instructions, making the process straightforward for both DIYers and professionals. If your Vanagon is aircooled or a different year, this core will not be compatible.

What makes this GoWesty heater core better than other aftermarket or OEM-style replacements?

This GoWesty front heater core features a robust, all-aluminum construction for superior durability and heat transfer compared to standard copper-brass or plastic-capped units. It resists corrosion and leaks over the long term, making it an ideal solution for those looking to upgrade their Vanagon’s heating system. Unlike some aftermarket options, this core is engineered for a precise fit in watercooled 1983-91 Vanagons, ensuring reliability and easy installation.

Are there other parts I should replace or inspect when installing a new front heater core in my Vanagon?

When replacing your Vanagon's heater core, it's a great time to inspect and, if necessary, replace heater hoses, clamps, and the heater valve since these components often age together. Check for signs of wear or leaks around these parts. Fresh coolant should also be added after installation. GoWesty includes installation aids, and you can find step-by-step guides and video resources on their website to help you through the process, ensuring your heater core replacement goes smoothly and prevents future issues.

Front Heater Core [Vanagon]

Name: Front Heater Core [Vanagon]
SKU: GW-251-265-303C-AM
Price: 129.95 USD
Availability: InStock

Front Heater Core [Vanagon]

Product:	GW-251-265-303C-AM
Works With:	1983-1991
Manufacturer:	GoWesty/Quality Aftermarket
Availability:	Low Stock

$129.95

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Replacing your front heater core is a chore you only want to do once, so we've partnered with a premium manufacturer to produce the highest-quality heater core at the best possible price. Do it once, do it right.

Fits: All 1983-91 Watercooled Vanagon

Features:
• Heavy-duty all-aluminum construction
• High-efficiency internal coolant flow characteristics
• Foam sealing tape and application instructions included!

Install note: There are many other items you'll want to replace at the same time, namely the Vent Levers, Heater Valve and Cable, the Heater Core Hoses, the Dash Fan Resistor, Heater Box Bearings, Blower Motor, and the Heater Box Foam Reseal Kit. Also, don't forget new Heater Box Clips!

5 stars: 9 (100%)
4 stars: 0 (0%)
3 stars: 0 (0%)
2 stars: 0 (0%)
1 star: 0 (0%)

Steve

The new heater core looks to be better quality then the origianl VW core and at a great price.

Good Product

Heater core

Perfect fit

Good unit

👍

Works

Rebuilding the heat box

Works great

Installed 5 years ago and still works perfectly.

Feet heat!

Fits like a glove and seems nicer than the piece I took out.

Good quality, perfect fit

I was taking apart my front heater box to replace a worn out blower motor and decided to replace the heater core as well since I don't plan on doing this job again anytime soon. It is a lot of work disassembling the whole dash to get access to this but I am confident that I wont be doing this job again anytime soon with all new GOWESTY parts for my heater box. I like how the foam tape to seal this was also included with this heater core, it was a perfect fit. The video tutorial videos were a huge help!