hob1

I recently purchased a 63 convertible with a 350 ci engine and as I was changing the alt belt I noticed it was hitting (rubbing on the lower radiator hose. Pulleys are correct and so is the alt bracket , hose and ex manifold. The only thing I can think is that the alternator is the wrong size (housing).. Does GM make a different size housing ? It looks like the alt should be approximately 1/2 inch taller so the belt clears the lower hose .. Any Ideas ?? Thankx for the help in advance !

ILBMF

What about the belt length? Is the slot in the upper bracket a bit too far one way on the adjustment or close to center?

hob1

Closer to the front,
belt is kind of tight before you put it over the pulley

hob1

the alt bracket actually rubs on the alt housing

ILBMF

I don't know about differences in alternator housings, but another thing to consider is whether the hose is swollen.

hob1

All hoses are brand new Thankx for your help

66jack

Loosen the hose clamps and twist the hose 'away' from the belt...

Sometimes owners just put those preformed, 'bent' hoses on without paying too much attention to 'angles' and need to be adjusted to clear things, these hoses are usually pretty tight on clearances...same with the upper hose...

Worth a look/try...

ILBMF

The only other thing I've heard of is the hose could be installed backwards. There's an S curve in the hose and apparently the hose can be installed either way, but the curve ends up in the wrong place.

Not sure if that information was in reference to the upper or lower hose.

tbarb

I agree with post #8, make sure the lower hose is installed correctly as it can be installed backwards. Also, the 63 corvette uses the two groove pulley set up on all engines and the alternator runs on the forward groove to prevent the exact problem you are experiencing.

Frankie the Fink

The care has a 350ci NOM engine; no telling what is going on - pictures would help..

hob1

We found the problem...Wrong water pump. I replaced with correct one. Lots of room Thank you all for the help !