For Removing/installing the dash to replace my heater core/assembly? Do I really have to take out the steering column or is there a way around it?

Removing the whole column is not needed but the steering wheel must come off and just let the column rest on the drivers seat.Get the AC evac'ed before starting as you have to unhook the AC lines also,then the system has to be vacuumed for at least 1 hour before recharging since you will have it open to air for a long period.

I was finally able to get it done... It took about 3 1/2 hours to do. I really thought it would be a lot tougher of a task... I should have wrote up a how to with pics... But it was way too cold out... Had to power through it. I'll try my best to explain .

I started by disconnecting the battery then removing the center console, then comes the A pillar handles; and everything screwed/clipped into the dash... All of the trim around the steering wheel, the column switch, gauge cluster, as well as both kick panels come out... Then the stereo and all HVAC controls. then the passenger side airbag came out. once that is done you can remove the swing bolts that are located behind the kick panels, then i took out the center mounting bolts as well as the plate. I then unscrewed the fuse/junction box at this point, then disconnected the wire harness starting at the brake switch and working my way over I fished most of it through the opening for the steering wheel. Then I disconnected the vacuum line and electrical connectors on the passenger side that go to the blower motor and the resistor, etc and fished them out a bit. After that its the main bolts that go into the firewall... I never dropped the steering column... I only loosened the two 13mm? Bolts that go up and through the bottom of the mid column up, they protrude just enough that you can't pull the dash towards you without backing them off till the ends are flush. Then there are
Two 10mm washer nuts on the bottom of the heater Box... And that just about finishes off the work in the cabin.

Then ON to the engine bay! You have to move the coolant overflow out of the way to get to the one remaining washer bolt on the firewall and the input output hoses On the heater core... Evacuate the AC then disconnect evaporator... Back in the cabin you can pull the dash back enough to wiggle the old heater box out. Twist it back towards you so the heater core openings face up and pull it out.

Jump around for joy at this point and look at your car in disbelief but be full of confidence because its not rocket science

When re installing take care to be easy and not Force it in... You can make enough space to get it in without forcing it. Also take care when handling your fuse/junction box... When I buttoned everything back up my gauge cluster was dead... I had to reseat the connectors and reset the battery... After that everything should be gravy. Enjoy the heat!