how does a lightning rod protect houses and barns from lightning?
To avoid having to replace the heater core under the dash, try an epoxy type repair. For a metal pipe, use the Permatex product below. They may also have an epoxy for non-metal materials.
Do what I do: start a really large fire and then put a blanket over it and lift it to release smoke. When your friends see this they will respond in kind. Hope this helps!