[jeremyfrost]

I know my heater matrix is on its way out. I have been getting a bit of a madras smell, but have recently had something a bit more acrid coming through now and again. Is this still the matrix or something else?

Also, I note a vast difference in price between Eurocarparts and a Saab unit ie. about 5 fold. Can anyone advise me where I should purchase one from?

Thanks.

 

[mutungi]

Do a coolant change with "BARS LEAK" or similar stuff and it should cure the matrix leak until the next coolant change....

 

[zeke]

Can't talk about Eeurocar parts. However, I did mine from Eeuroparts, here in the 'states.
I think it was a little over $50 (£33). It was the
exact same unit as the original - an italian name I can't remember. I wouldn't hesitate
in using the Bars' Leak, either. If the leak is
very minor and the cooling system is in
otherwise good shape, then there's no harm
in using the stuff - many new cars have it
added at the factory: used for both its' ability to
'fix' small leaks and as a conditioner for the
water pump seals

 

[mark e]

Originally posted by mutungi:
[qb]Do a coolant change with "BARS LEAK" or similar stuff [/qb][/b]

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooo! Don't do it!

Or not until you've read the info in this series of threads:

Bars Stuff

 

[jeremyfrost]

Something similar has already been done and this has stopped the leak. I wonder what the horrible smell is - almost like burning. Could this be the failing heater matrix or something more serious? Any idea what a garage's time should be on matrix replacement for an air-con'd 9k?

 

[gilbert]

Had a word with the local specialist & they were
booking for 5-6 hrs with the A/c cars @ £38.00 hr
labour ,you should be able to pick up the matrix for about £59 +vat (GSF),although i would think everyone charges about the same?
I've had a car thet had some sort of anti-leak agent put in the matrix & all it seemed to do was cut down on the effect of the heater,water was flowing in ok,but it was just dribbling out,so i guessed it just blocked it up.
I can't think what would cause the smell tho' sorry
G.

 

[paulmanchester]

Mine also makes the curry smell. Although I have narrowed it down to a particularly fine specimen of Tandoori Methi Murgh, with a side order of keema naan and pilau rice too.

I just thought my regular trips to the takeaway and too much boost, too many sharp corners=smelly car!!

Seriously though I have the same problem. And no ideas at all.

 

[jeremyfrost]

Garage seems to think that it could be causing the acrid smell as well. They reckon around 3 hours as they will try to do it without messing with the aircon. Sounds as though the ECP part is the same as Saab original, from what I have gleaned.