Here's a general outline of what's involved:
1. Preparation:
* Consult a repair manual: A factory service manual specific to your 1963 Impala is crucial. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and procedures. This is non-negotiable.
* Gather tools: You'll need a variety of tools, including sockets, wrenches (metric and standard), screwdrivers, pliers, a drain pan, coolant flush, new heater hoses, and possibly a special tool to compress the heater core hoses to facilitate connection.
* Disconnect the battery: This is a safety precaution to prevent electrical shorts.
* Drain the coolant: Completely drain the engine's cooling system.
2. Accessing the Heater Core:
This is the most challenging part. The heater core is typically located behind the dashboard, often requiring significant disassembly:
* Dashboard removal: This usually involves removing the steering wheel, instrument cluster, and potentially other components. This is the most time-consuming and potentially frustrating step.
* Removal of related components: Depending on the specific model and configuration, you may need to remove the glove box, radio, and other parts for access.
3. Heater Core Replacement:
* Disconnect hoses: Carefully disconnect the heater hoses from the heater core. Be prepared for coolant spillage.
* Remove the heater core: This often involves removing mounting bolts and carefully maneuvering the core out of its housing. The core is usually fragile.
* Install the new heater core: Carefully install the new heater core, ensuring proper alignment and sealing.
* Reconnect hoses: Reconnect the heater hoses, ensuring a tight seal to prevent leaks.
4. Reassembly:
* Reinstall components: Carefully reinstall all removed components, including the dashboard, instrument cluster, and other parts. Make sure everything is securely fastened.
* Refill the cooling system: Refill the cooling system with the correct coolant mixture.
* Bleed the cooling system: Bleed the air out of the cooling system to ensure proper circulation. This is vital to prevent overheating.
* Test the system: Start the engine and test the heater to ensure proper function and check for leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Fragility: The heater core and surrounding components can be fragile. Work carefully to avoid damage.
* Seals: Use new seals and gaskets as needed to prevent leaks.
* Coolant: Use the correct type and mixture of coolant for your engine.
* Bleeding: Proper bleeding of the cooling system is essential.
This is just a high-level overview. Without the detailed instructions and diagrams from a 1963 Chevrolet Impala repair manual, attempting this repair is strongly discouraged unless you have extensive automotive experience. The cost of a repair manual is small compared to the cost and inconvenience of a botched repair. You risk causing more damage if you don't know what you're doing. Again, professional assistance is highly recommended.
