I’m not familiar with how the deluxe heater automatic valve connects to the core having never owned one. I have had good experiences with external valves however. There are 3 commonly used inline styles available at most auto parts stores.
1. Manual (turns on and off like a faucet).
2. Cable operated.
3. Vacuum operated.
The last 5 items at the link below show some of the styles available. It’s important to choose the correct version for your application, some pull to open and some push to open.
http://www.oldairproducts.com/catalo...t_order&page=1
If you can live with the truck not being pure stock, you don’t necessarily need to replace the heater you have. Just get a core with regular hose connections, and install an inline heater control valve. If having variable heat is important, then one of the cable operated valves will get the job done.
I live in the Northwest and when I need the heater I need all I can get, so I run a vacuum valve that is either closed or open all the way. I control the heat level in the cab with the fan and the vent window. A toggle switch operates an electric vacuum solenoid which opens the heater valve. It makes for a clean installation and is easy to operate. An example of the solenoid is shown at the link below. Just run a hot line to the switch, connect it to the solenoid, ground the solenoid, connect a vacuum line to the heater valve and you’re good to go.
http://www.hotrodair.com/index.cfm/p...rod/prd172.htm