heaater plastic elbows, heater core inlet restricter

[Troyport]

1999 olds eighty-eight, finally got bit by the plastic elbow monster. No problem, looks like dorman has both elbows for very cheap. HOWEVER, while everything was apart, I figured I would also change the O-rings on the metal fittings for the heater hoses.. and when I pulled the metal inlet elbow out, a plastic and rubber and spring thing that I assume is a flow restrictor went into about 30 pieces of brittle plastic. Is this part available, and/or is it needed, and/or is there a simple way around this thing? I didn't see a listing on rockauto, which has me nervous... Please reply.. thanks.. Mike.

[Troyport]

if this is a $200 dealer item has anyone just restricted the flow in that elbow with, say, a piece of hose inserted into that elbow?

[willwren]

I'm not familiar with that part. My cars don't have it (and neither does your 93). Someone will chime in soon. It sounds more like a check valve than a restrictor to me, based on your description.

[Troyport]

Bill: Yes, it is a checkvalve, according to the dealer. 27 bucks, special order, very very very little activity on this part, makes me think no one ever buys it. I can't imagine that this part could affect how then engine cools, rather, I would think it may goof with heat output, but based on how the system is piped I can't think why it would be needed, unless it has something to do with drainback. I have to get this thing together today, so I will probably do it without the part, unless someone can tell me a drastic need for it. Based on the shape it was in, I can't think it was working anyway... But I am open to thoughts from others!!!