Cliff notes: Heater core leaking. Can I bypass the heater VSV and heater core safely?

Murphy's law has struck for me...I've just finished the GTE swap into my SC300, ironed out all the usual issues and got it running beautifully.

Took the car out for a drive today and noticed alot of radiant heat in the cabin. Saw some steam from the passenger side vents and stopped the car to find hot liquid leaking from from under the dash. I've searched the forums and don't really want to take on this task at the moment. I saw some posts about bypassing the heater core but none mentioned if it was safe to do and for how long. Searched google and got mixed opinions. Some say it works fine, others say the heater core is integral to the proper cooling of the engine.

So, what's the verdict? Can I bypass the heater core safely? Any adverse side effects (other than not having heat ... which isn't a problem here in FL )

 

i say fix it the right way like i did, mine was leaking and i have a thread with pics if u search. its was a weekend job and a $300 part.

 

"Can I bypass the heater core safely? Any adverse side effects"

Anyone know how to bypass the heater core?