How much does it cost to have a heater core replaced in a 1997 Z28 Camaro?

Answer 1

you can order the heater core off of partstrain.com, it's the same replacement part that you can get at the Chevy dealer, napa, advanced auto, Checker/Schucks/Kragen... the core from the dealer will run just under $300, $100 or so from the parts stores, and $50 or so online. That's all you should pay really. This IS easy enough to do yourself. All you need to do is remove the 2 engine hoses... then your glovebox door (3 or 4 screws) then the door over the hearter core (black molded plastic with a few small bolts)... next get a small pan (i would recommend a plastic litter box for a cat with low sides) put it on the passenger floor pull out the heater core and disconnect the hoses... this will allow the coolant remaining in the hoses and the core to drain into the pan. once its drained put the new core in, replace the hose clamps or quick disconnect connectors depending on your cars design... put the heater cover back on and be careful to make sure the seals are all sitting correctly. to refill open both vent screws on the hoses going to the water pump and take off the radiator cap. add some extra fluid to your overflow tank, and start the engine... keep adding fluid until you start getting fluid out of the two vent screws... close each one after you get coolant out of them.. (stuff rags or paper towels under the screws before you start of the fluid will drip down and the fan will blow it back onto your serpentine belt) when you're done with that close the radiator cap and refill the overflow if needed.... now with everything closed restart the engine let it run for a minute to move any trapped air back to the vent screws, then vent each screw again one at a time until you see coolant with no major air bubbles... if you still have air it will spit and sputter coolant. this is not the time to be in a rush... take your time and once you think you've vented enough, vent it again... if you don't the air will build up in the heater core and come winter you wont have crap for heat, which defeats the whole point of changing the core anyhow.... FYI another great place to look for this tech info is on the Camaro enthusiest sites... just search for Camaro forums and type your question there... you can ALMOST always find what you need on one site or another. Good luck. Frank.. grraystorm @gmail.com