heater core hacking?

[Mark and Aviva Woodland]

Greetings,
has anyone successfully removed and replaced a 5K heater core without
removing the entire HVAC housing?
I have replaced several blower moters with the aid of a hacksaw, so far, and
speculate that it could be done with the heater core also.
Any BTDTs would be welcomed, as mine is currently leaking, disconnected, and
yet another heating season is on the way...
Best regards,
Mark Woodland