Welcome to the BB, and congrats on the free Milano
These are fun cars and I think you'll enjoy it once you get it moving again.
Here are some answers to your questions:
Exhaust valve adjustment is done just by loosening a set nut and turning the adjuster until you get the correct clearence. Intake valve adjustment is done with shims and requires the removal of the camshafts. Luckily it is usually just the exhaust valves that need adjusting.
Changing the heater core isn't fun, since you need to remove the dashboard (or at least part of it), but it can be bypassed if you don't mind not having heat
The headgaskets will need to be replaced if there is oil in the coolant or vise-vera. It's not too hard of a job, but the drivers side head won't come off without removing the brake booster.
Front brakes are easy, pretty much like any other car, rear brakes are inboard and a bit of a pain. Let me know if you have to mess with the rear brakes and I can help you out.
Changing the timing belt when needed is VERY IMPORTANT. If it hasn't been changed within the last 30k miles than you should really change it. If the timing belt breaks or slips more than a couple teeth the pistons will hit valves and you'll end up with expensive engine damage. Doing the belt isn't too hard, expect 3-4 hours. While you're down there you should check the water pump, grab the nose of the pulley and see if there's any play. If there is then you should replace it while you have everything apart down there.
Where in San Diego are you?
Linear Mode
