So, does this thing just block off the heater or what?

[madhat]

This little do-hickey, as you can plainly see, is leaking antifreeze and I want it to stop. What exactly does it do? Does stop the water from circulating through the heater when not in use? Is it a GM only part? Can I just delete it w/o affecting anything? BTW, if you can't tell, it's between up by the heater box and coil pack and it vacuum operated.

 

[madhat]

opps...here's the pic

 

[SouthernCal GN]

That's your heater control valve, and it does exactly as you guessed- it stops the flow of water to the heater core. It's not a GM-only part.

Easy replacement.

 

[madhat]

thanks
O'Reilly Auto Parts - Shopping
this doesn't seem to be quite the same, maybe jsut a generic photo?

 

[2 QK 4 U]

2nd that....it's like 10 bucks at your local parts store....but it will more than likely come in a plastic housing. It will fit so don't be alarmed if it does not look the same.