[s-cars] Coolant in the footwell

[ron kirkham]

Hey all,

I guess my car has been listening (sort of) to the cowl drain threads. My
cowl drain is gone and flowing fine thanks.

Took a short tirp this evening, about 10mi. with A/C on and about 75-80
degrees.  Came out to the '93 Tornado Pink S4 with 248k about three hours
later and there was coolant in the footwell on the drivers side.  Nothing
showing on the passenger side.  The winter WeatherTechs are still in place,
so they caught most of it, I think.  Got her home and a quick look-see with
a dying flashlight showed no obvious leaks, but as expected the coolant tank
was way down, not empty, but low.  I took off the cowl cover expecting to
see the heater core area wet with coolant, but could not see anything
obvious there either.  Unfortunately, I suspect the heater core has taken a
hike as I'm sure it is original.  Further investigation will be tomorrow
AM.

When the heater core goes, does it leak inside?  I know I have read many
threads on this, but you never really pay attention if you don't currently
have the problem right?
If it is the heater core, can it be bypassed until I can tackle this chore?
Shoulda done it in October when I did the blower motor as preventative, but
was too dumb?

Thoughts?  Thanks,

Ron Kirkham
'93 S4 248K and leaking