Hi, All, I have decided to replace the long coolant hoses that run between the radiator and the engine. as the ones on there are probably the originals. I got new hoses from Superformance in the UK. Has anyone on the forum done this? Are there any tricks other than using plenty of grease or oil to make them slippery? Since the outside of the hose is rather rough, I'm thinking it would be best to pull them through together, as it will be difficult to get one to slide past the other once one is in. Is it best to remove and replace them from the front or the rear? I assume you attach a cord the the end of the old ones before you slide them out then use that to help you pull the new ones thru. Do you poke a hole in the substance of the hose itself to attach the cord to? I enjoy working on my own cars, but is this something I should just have done? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you, Jim
Done it, but not with an assembled car. I would remove the radiator and attempt pulling through from the front. Try placing them end to end and wind duct tape around the two, use plenty of it, Then see if it would feed through. Raising the car will no doubt make it easier, as well as having someone push while the other pulls. To make them slide easier, if necessary, use plenty of washing up liquid with just a little water. Don't use oil or grease.
Mine were an easy fit. Pulled the old ones out and shoved the new ones in with no problems. Best done from the front of the car if the engine is still in.
Racerboy has it right. Should have not difficulty removing them, and as you imply, pulling together allows them to come out easily. Inserting the new ones is easier one at a time. I would NOT punch a hole in the new hose to attach a wire. Not necessary. Blow air down the channel when the hoses are out to clean debris. One of the hoses is short, and easily pulled once the heater T-junction is removed in the front of the car. The other hose is long and terminates on the radiator. Once loosened from the radiator, pull this one aft until you can swing it below the car, then pull forward. I believe you will find that the old hoses are in good condition. If there is any age/heat related deterioration it will be in the engine bay end in the first inch. Jim S.
