[KeithO]

It appears that the heater core on my LT1 Trans Am needs replaced. I *think* that I just need to remove the glove box and I can remove the heater core through the opening. Is it really this easy or will I find that I need to pull the dash off the cowl like I had to do with my old 88 IROC? That was an unpleasant surprise and I guess I am trying to figure this out so I know what I will be dealing with when I start.

I am just curious about what sort of project I am getting into.

Thanks.

[CharlieFoxtrot]

I just did one on my kid's 96 3.8 V6, so it'd be the same as yours. Get a set of long needle-nose pliers; they make it super easy to get the clamps off.

I had to replace the heater hose assembly, as the one-way valve (or whatever it is) blew up. It was $110 from GM!! But that meant I didn't mind cutting the old hoses, which was nice.

To get the core out, you just have to take out the glove box. But the heater box cover has only a blonde hair of clearance between it and an actuator valve to the right. Do this job on a day when you have lots of patience, because it's not quite as easy as it looks.

Also, weaseling the core into place is no cakewalk. You stand a good chance of beating it up a bit; hopefully not enough to cause a leak.

The Autozone replacement core in our car lasted less than a week. I'm getting a Delco next time. For now, it's bypassed.

hth

kevin