PUT IT BACK TOGETHER

Trial run

Reassemble the heater on a bench, even if it has to be partially disassembled again for refitting. This allows you to get things right at your leisure before it’s entombed in the dash once more.

Reload the matrix

The matrix should have some sort of seal around it. It may be as simple as a loose foam strip. Refit pipes and other appendages. Make sure they’re the right way round… it’s easy to get confused.

Build up the unit

Build up the heater unit. If things don’t fit well, work out if you’ve reassembled something incorrectly, if something needs jiggling, or if it has distorted or was badly-moulded to begin with.

Adjust cables

If the control unit came away with the heater, adjust the cables so that everything is firmly shut when it’s supposed to be. Note the sliders’ extreme positions may be restricted by the slots in the dash.

Clean ducts and vents

Clean out any ventilation ducts and vent apertures in the dash. Vacuum the carpet under the heater. Liquid runoff from our unit’s mouse’s nest means the carpet needs thorough disinfection.

Reinstall in car

Take your time when reinstalling the heater. Don’t cause damage to plastic mouldings, wiring, etc. If it’s awkward to get back in position, stop, remove it and work out the correct method. Don’t force it.