Disclaimer: This is general guidance. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1992 Ford Tempo (year and engine are crucial) for precise instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams. Improper repair can lead to damage to your vehicle and potential injury.
General Steps (Highly Simplified):
1. Preparation: This is critical. Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Gather your tools (sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, coolant drain pan, new heater core, new coolant, etc.). Protect your work area with drop cloths.
2. Drain the Coolant: Locate the coolant drain valve (usually on the radiator) and drain the coolant into a suitable container.
3. Dash Disassembly: This is the most labor-intensive part. You'll need to remove parts of the dashboard, possibly including:
* Glove compartment
* Radio
* Steering column shroud (potentially)
* HVAC controls
* Possibly parts of the instrument panel itself
4. Accessing the Heater Core: The heater core is usually located behind the dashboard. You'll need to carefully remove components blocking access. This often involves removing the HVAC housing. Expect to see a lot of screws, clips, and potentially some tricky maneuvers.
5. Disconnect Heater Core Hoses: Carefully disconnect the hoses leading to the heater core. Have rags ready to absorb any remaining coolant.
6. Remove the Heater Core: This is often the most challenging part. The core may be held in place by clamps, screws, or simply friction. Take pictures as you go to help with reassembly.
7. Install the New Heater Core: Carefully install the new heater core, ensuring it's properly seated. Reconnect the hoses.
8. Reassembly: Carefully reverse the disassembly steps, reassembling the dashboard components. Be meticulous to ensure everything is properly connected.
9. Refill Coolant System: Refill the coolant system with the correct type and amount of coolant. Bleed the system thoroughly to remove any air pockets. This is essential to prevent overheating.
10. Test: Run the engine and check for leaks. Test the heater to ensure it's working correctly.
Why This is Difficult:
* Dash Disassembly: This is complex and time-consuming. Getting everything back together correctly is challenging.
* Accessibility: The heater core is often in a tight, hard-to-reach location.
* Potential for Leaks: Any mistake during disassembly or reassembly can lead to coolant leaks.
* Fragile Parts: Dashboard components can be easily damaged during disassembly and reassembly.
Strong Recommendation: Unless you have significant experience with automotive repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. The cost of a professional repair will likely be less than the cost of parts and the time spent if you encounter problems. Replacing a heater core incorrectly can lead to significant damage and expense.
