Hi experienced people.... I have a SIII that I am trying to assess the climate control/AC system and want to replace my crusty, intermittently moving heater valve.

Just want any opinions on this question... do I spend $8 on Rock auto for the plastic item.... or $88 on Parts Geel for the metal one.

Plastic can't corrode... costs a glass of cheap bourbon..

Metal just seems more solid, but 10x the cost could be spent elsewhere.

I am leaning toward the plastic unless folks have experience with it cracking easily or being unduly affected (cracking again !) by engine bay heat.

Thanks... and for the guy/gal that says.. "Hey.. but 10 of the plastic and replace as needed"... Ha Ha.. I have enough work without adding a periodic heater valve replacement.

Thanks - Randy

Update: Actually see metal version on Moss and Welsh for $45.. so that makes it more tempting

 

As long as the valve fits and it CLOSES with vacuum, you are good to go with whatever works.

 

I use the plastic Made In China heater valve in my 1965 Jaguar S type and I was impressed. It works fine, it has not melted from being very close to the rear exhaust manifold, no moving parts. Normally Closed, opens with vacuum. Series 2 and 3 XJ use a Normally OPEN, closes with vacuum heater valve. Series 1 XJ is like my S type. Make sure you confirm how it works.

 

I have been using the Plastic "Normally Open" valve for the past 6 years with no problem on my XJ6. I bought mine at NAPA for around $8.00.
Recently, I found out that I had no heat on my XJS. The metal OEM valve is stuck in the closed position, so I picked up another plastic valve from NAPA. Price went up to $11.00.
Now that it has warmed back up it Florida, I suddenly got lazy. I will replace the valve in the near future.

 

5/8" ports, 1/8" vacuum port. **might need a reducer-adapter if hose is 1/4"
I got this one at AutoZone in 2005. CarQuest, Advance Auto, and O'Reilly have them too.
This valve is used in Ford trucks straight from the factory. It comes in both Normally Closed and Normally Open .

 

I've used the plastic type many time; never any problems



Cheers
DD

 

I replaced my metal one with plastic. Seems to work fine. My only beef is that you can't see any moving parts. So you don't know if it's really working or not.

 

if you have Heat after engine warms up. then it is working. The Delanair system does not respond to the Heater until the coolant has warmed up enough.

 

My car has the plastic valve. Was there when it came in to my ownership, 2001! Still works perfectly.

Unless you are a concours contestant and originality is a must, get the 8 buxck valve...

Carl