Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Sockets and Wrenches: Various sizes, likely including metric. You'll need both to access and remove the hinge bolts.
* Ratchet: To speed up the process.
* Extensions and Wobble Extensions: To reach those hard-to-get-to bolts.
* Screwdrivers: Phillips and possibly flathead, depending on any interior trim removal.
* Punch and Hammer: May be needed to help loosen stubborn bolts.
* Penetrating Oil (PB Blaster or similar): Highly recommended to soak the hinge bolts before attempting removal. This prevents stripped bolt heads.
* New Hinge(s): Ensure you get the correct replacement hinge for your Camaro's door.
* Jack Stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Shop Towels or Rags: To clean and protect surfaces.
* Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening the bolts to the correct specification to prevent damage.
Steps (General Outline - Refer to a Repair Manual for Accuracy):
1. Safety First: Disconnect the battery's negative terminal. Secure the car on jack stands.
2. Door Panel Removal: Carefully remove the interior door panel. This usually involves removing screws and possibly some clips. A repair manual will guide you through this process.
3. Window Regulator and Other Components: You may need to partially disconnect or carefully maneuver the window regulator and other internal components to gain access to the hinge bolts. Again, your repair manual will be essential here.
4. Hinge Bolt Removal: Liberally apply penetrating oil to all hinge bolts several hours before starting. Use the appropriate sockets and wrenches to carefully remove the hinge bolts. They're often very tight and may require significant effort. A punch and hammer might help if the bolts are truly stuck.
5. Hinge Removal: Once the bolts are out, the hinge should separate from the door and the body. This might require some gentle persuasion. Be mindful not to damage the paint or the door's structure.
6. Installation of New Hinge: Carefully align the new hinge with its mating parts on the door and body. Insert the bolts and tighten them *slightly* initially to ensure proper alignment.
7. Final Tightening: Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This is critical to prevent damage and ensure proper function. Over-tightening can strip threads.
8. Reassembly: Reverse the disassembly process. Reinstall the door panel, window regulator, and any other components. Reconnect the battery.
9. Test: Open and close the door several times to ensure smooth operation and that the door aligns correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Rust: On a 1990 Camaro, rust is a real possibility. This can make removing the bolts exceptionally difficult and increase the risk of damage. Extra patience and possibly specialized tools might be required.
* Bolt Damage: Be prepared for the possibility that you may strip a bolt head during removal. Having replacement bolts on hand is a wise precaution. If this happens, you may need to use an extractor to remove the broken bolt.
* Repair Manual: This cannot be stressed enough. A repair manual specific to your 1990 Camaro is indispensable for this task. It provides detailed instructions, diagrams, torque specifications, and other crucial information.
This is a complex repair. If you're not comfortable working on cars, it's best to take your Camaro to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installed hinges can lead to door misalignment, poor sealing, and safety issues.
