Well it reads like you have the problem that most used 3rd gen cars with the automatic hatch release and closure. People slam the hatch to close and screw up the parts. Go to the web site of Topdown Solutions and download their Hatch repair instructions (they are straight forward). The replacement parts needed are 1) nylon slides 2) plastic gear nut 3) gear motor (if defective). This shouldget the Hatch operable again. Then DO NOT let anybody slam it closed.

 

i just bought my first camaro too i paid $4000 for it and its ready for any car show i want to park it at. it sounds like you got a good deal on it. the dash being cracked is a normal thing i have only seen a handfull that are not crack with mine being one of them (i think it was replaced before i bout it) but i only have a 305 in mine but it sounds like you got a good deal on it to me so good luck with it and becarfull these things are dangerous and im finding out the hard way lol