The easiest way to replace the front heater core is as follows.

Remove glove box
disconnect hoses behind radiator so coolant doesn't  go inside van when
disconnecting the core.
Disconnect hoses to core
cut side of housing so that core can slide out.
replace core
glue, epoxy or whatever to re-attach side of housing.  Seal with silicone.
re-connect hoses, bleed system and you are done.

I hate this method but this is how VW does it when replacing cores under
warranty.  I know, they did it to my 84 sunroof.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Chris Wyatt2 <syncro@GI.ALASKA.EDU>
To: Vanagon@GERRY.SDSC.EDU <Vanagon@GERRY.SDSC.EDU>
Date: Monday, December 15, 1997 4:00 PM
Subject: Front heater core

>Hi Volks,
>
>I've been through the rear heater core ordeal.  Now I'm dying to get up
>close and personal with the front heater.
>
>Has anyone found the shortest way to reveal the front heater core?
>
>I estimate that access won't be as easy as that to the rear core.  I'd
>like to inspect it before handing it over to my present mechanic.
>
>Thanks,
>
>Chris Wyatt
>'87 Syncro GL
>Fairbanks, Alaska
>