1. Gather Materials and Tools:
- Replacement heater core
- Coolant
- Drain pan
- Antifreeze
- Pliers
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flashlight
- Hose clamp pliers
2. Access the Heater Core Housing:
- Open the hood of your Riviera and locate the heater core housing. It's usually underneath the dashboard on the passenger side.
3. Drain the Coolant:
- Place a drain pan underneath the radiator and open the petcock to drain the coolant from the vehicle's cooling system.
4. Remove the Air Intake Hose:
- Detach the air intake hose from the throttle body.
5. Remove Dashboard:
- Remove the screws or bolts holding the dashboard in place and gently remove it. Please be careful not to damage any electrical connections or gauges.
6. Disconnect Heater Hoses:
- Locate the heater hoses connected to the heater core and disconnect them using hose clamp pliers.
7. Remove Heater Core:
- Take out the screws or bolts holding the heater core in place, and carefully remove the old heater core from the vehicle.
8. Inspect and Clean:
- Check for any debris, rust, or corrosion inside the heater core housing and clean it thoroughly.
9. Install New Heater Core:
- Position the new heater core in place, making sure all connections align properly. Secure the new heater core with the screws or bolts you removed earlier.
10. Reconnect Hoses:
- Reattach the heater hoses, using new hose clamps if necessary.
11. Refill Coolant:
- Mix coolant and water according to the correct specifications. Fill the vehicle's cooling system through the radiator or coolant reservoir.
12. Reinstall Components:
- Reattach the air intake hose and reinstall the dashboard, being cautious with the electrical connections.
13. Test the System:
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for leaks around the heater core connections.
14. Top Off Coolant:
- If the coolant level went down after running the engine, top it off as necessary.
15. Check Heat:
- Check if the heater is blowing hot air. Adjust the temperature settings to confirm the heater core is working properly.
16. Test Drive:
- Take the vehicle for a brief test drive and ensure that the heater is functioning as intended.
Note: The specific location and steps may vary slightly depending on your vehicle's exact model and year. If you're uncomfortable performing these steps, it's best to seek assistance from a qualified mechanic or refer to a vehicle repair manual specific to your 1986 Buick Riviera.
