The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Interiors new aftermarket heater?

My original heater core seems to be leaking and I'm thinking about replacement vs upgrade.

Has anyone tried a new aftermarket heater or heater/AC unit?
How does performance compare to the original 'deluxe' unit?

Here's what I'm looking at:
https://www.classicparts.com/1955-59-Heater-Defroster-Assembly/productinfo/68%2D991B/#

I have had good luck going to an established radiator shop. They can have a core built for you much cheaper than the suppliers AND it will be made in the USA!!
Harold

Excellent advice, as usual, from Harold.

Luckily, I used to live near two excellent radiator repair shops. Competition is a wonderful thing.

Luckily, I had all my radiator "rebuilt" before I moved to near the NC coast. I have no idea where I could find a good shop here.

Good advice, thanks.
I pulled the core out just now... thankfully it appears leak is from the bypass valve hose.
Easy repair.

There is a lot of debris clogging my heater core after just a month outside (pine needles & pollen cones)... I might have to stick some mesh over the intake vents in front of the windshield.

I run the aftermarket style round recirculating core in my truck. I think it came from classic industries I believe. Its rated for higher pressure and has a spal fan attached to it and fits in the box like stock so nobody knows its in there. Worked great last year when I drove the truck in like below freezing weather before we got snow. Also helps that it runs at a constant 195-199 deg.