Before You Begin:
* Gather Tools: You'll need a wide variety of tools, including various wrenches (metric), sockets, screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead), pliers, a drain pan, coolant recovery container, new heater core, new O-rings, coolant (the correct type for your system), possibly a coolant pressure tester, and possibly a shop manual specific to your car.
* Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves. Work in a well-ventilated area. Coolant is toxic.
* Drain the Coolant: This is crucial. Drain the coolant from the engine's radiator and the engine block.
* Disconnect the Battery: This prevents accidental shorts.
General Steps (Highly Simplified):
1. Dashboard Removal (The Hard Part): This is the most labor-intensive part. You'll likely need to remove parts of the dashboard, including the instrument panel, glove box, and possibly parts of the center console, to access the heater core. This involves removing screws, bolts, clips, and potentially disconnecting various electrical connectors and cables. Take pictures and make detailed notes as you go!
2. Access the Heater Core: Once the dashboard is partially or fully disassembled, you'll locate the heater core housing behind the dashboard. This usually involves removing screws and/or bolts holding the housing in place.
3. Disconnect the Heater Core Hoses: Carefully disconnect the coolant hoses connected to the heater core. Be prepared for coolant spillage; have your drain pan ready.
4. Remove the Heater Core: Remove the heater core from its housing. This may involve removing retaining clips or screws.
5. Install the New Heater Core: Install the new heater core, ensuring the O-rings are properly seated.
6. Reconnect the Heater Core Hoses: Carefully reconnect the coolant hoses, ensuring tight connections.
7. Reassemble the Dashboard: Carefully reassemble the dashboard, making sure all parts are properly secured and electrical connections are correctly made.
8. Refill the Cooling System: Refill the cooling system with the correct type and amount of coolant. Bleed the system to remove any air pockets (consult your repair manual).
9. Test the System: Run the engine and test the heater to ensure it's working correctly. Check for leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: A factory service manual or a Chilton's/Haynes manual for your specific 1981 Camaro is absolutely essential. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and other vital information. Attempting this repair without one is highly discouraged.
* Complexity: This is a difficult repair, even for experienced mechanics. Expect to spend several hours, potentially a full day or more.
* Alternatives: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, consider taking your Camaro to a qualified mechanic. The cost of professional repair will likely be significant, but it'll save you time, potential frustration, and the risk of damaging other components.
This is a very simplified overview. The actual process is far more complex. Again, consult a repair manual before attempting this repair. Improperly performing this repair can lead to significant damage to your vehicle.
