I did end up breaking the old stems off the heater core to remove it. I also replaced the spring clamps with regular hose clamps.

I didn't have to remove any of the dash other than the glove box, I don't see any reason too atleast with the hearter core. took me 3 hours total, that includes walking to the parts store to buy the clamps (in the rain) because thats my luck.

I did find out that my AC'* sensor was bad! I wondered why I didn't have any AC.

I'm going to be taking a shot at the heater core on my 96 SSEi in the next week or so if I can find the time. Right now I just have it looped back around and no heat at all. 10 minute side of I-10 quickfix.

Driver..In your case you will need to remove the HVAC programmer as well. the one trick to it is that it'* connected to the air mix actuator via a couple wires up on top. The HVAC programmer is the part with the mutilcolored hoses going to it. Reach up and feel for the connector. After that...it should be a snap.

pops right out. When you go to put that back in, I found it to be a little tricky but not to bad.

IIRC you don't have an HVAC programmer. Although w/o your model/year in your siggy it'* tough to remember everyone'* car.