Here's a *general* overview of the process, but remember this is not a substitute for a proper repair manual:
1. Preparation:
* Disconnect the battery: This is crucial to prevent electrical shorts.
* Gather tools: You'll need a variety of tools, including sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), pliers, a drain pan, coolant recovery container, possibly a specialty heater core flush tool, and possibly a new hose clamp or two.
* Obtain parts: Get a new heater core, possibly new hoses (especially the heater hoses), and new O-rings or seals if needed. Consider getting new clamps to ensure a good seal.
* Drain the coolant: Locate the drain plug on the engine block and the radiator drain plug. Open them to drain the coolant into your recovery container.
2. Accessing the Heater Core:
This is the most challenging part. The heater core is typically located behind the dashboard. You will likely need to:
* Remove parts of the dashboard: This often involves removing the glove box, various trim pieces, and potentially parts of the instrument panel. Be extremely careful to avoid damaging any components. Take photos as you go to aid in reassembly.
* Disconnect various components: You'll need to disconnect various cables, hoses, and potentially air conditioning components to gain access to the heater core housing. Again, take pictures to help with reassembly.
* Remove the heater core housing: This housing typically surrounds the heater core.
3. Replacing the Heater Core:
* Remove the old heater core: Once the housing is accessible, carefully remove the old heater core. Pay attention to how the hoses and any mounting brackets are positioned. This often involves removing the hoses from the core.
* Install the new heater core: Install the new heater core, ensuring it's properly seated and oriented. Replace any O-rings or seals as needed.
* Reconnect hoses and components: Carefully reconnect the hoses to the new heater core, making sure the clamps are securely tightened. Reconnect all the previously disconnected components.
4. Reassembly:
* Reinstall the heater core housing: Carefully reinstall the heater core housing.
* Reassemble the dashboard: Reassemble the dashboard, working in reverse order of disassembly. Be careful not to force anything.
* Refill the cooling system: Once everything is reassembled, refill the cooling system with the correct type of coolant, ensuring there are no leaks. Bleed the air from the system by following the instructions in your repair manual.
Safety Precautions:
* Coolant is toxic: Wear gloves and eye protection when handling coolant.
* Sharp edges: Be careful of sharp edges on metal components.
* Electrical components: Be mindful of electrical components to avoid shorts or injury.
* Proper Torque: Use the correct torque specifications for all fasteners to prevent damage.
This is a complex job. If you are not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, take your car to a qualified mechanic. The cost of professional repair will be less than the cost of damaging your car attempting this yourself. Remember to consult your 1982 Camaro Z28 repair manual for detailed, model-specific instructions.
