Well I took the opportunity to tackle the core this weekend with the 50 degree plus weather here on Long Island. I think it took me longer to remove the lower kick panel and dash pad than to remove the core. I remember it being a PITA when I did it in my 87 Firebird years back. The hardest part was getting the top screw out on the cover, but a long extension and universal on my 1/4 inch drive took care of it. I did drop the ECM for better access after reading a few posts. All in all it took less than an hour. It probably helped that the core I removed wasn't hooked up so I didn't have to remove hoses, etc.

Thanks guys for posting your past experiences and tips. It was a real help! Now to install the hoses and I'll heat and defroster again.