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I need to replace mine too, I've been researching it and have decided that it will probably end up being an 8-12 hour job for me.
#1. I work pretty slow (artheritis in hands.)
#2. Because I know I'll spend several hours cleaning and resealing heater/AC duct work.
#3. I'm sure I'll find something else broken and have to fix it.
It requires removal of the leftside dash pad and center gauge cluster.
Then the removal of under dash cross supports and duct work.
Getting to the heater core is a royal PITA once that stuff is out of the way, due to position of some of the screws holding the case to the firewall.
One clue I read somewhere was to connect the heater hoses to the new core then slip the core and hoses back through the holes they came through. Pressure test any core you get before you put it in, too many people have installed new cores only to have them leak the first time they put coolant through them.
I replaced mine a few years ago. It isn't hard, just itme consuming. The right side of the dash has to come out including all the ductwork. This is an excellent time to go through all the climate controls and ducting. Re-seal the blower box, lube the door, check the hoses, etc.
Zwede's got it right on. I did mine ('69 BB w/A/C) last year and It took me a whole day, but I worked slowly and re-installed everything carefully and sealed it. I don't think it's a good idea to install the hoses on the core and then put it in. It's a bit risky and they are easy to put on after. Good idea to test the core first as well. I hear the cheapos can leak right off the bat...
Thanks folks, I don't mind the work or the difficulty level. I grew up in a shop and worked my way through college doing this type of stuff. However I have never done a heater core on a vette. It is nice to have an idea of what I am getting into and see a few reminders of tricks and tips. :steering: