Lower radiator hose - HELP
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 347
Likes: 1
From: Walpole MA
Lower radiator hose - HELP
I have just spent more than 5 hours today removing and TRYING to replace my lower radiator hose. There just doesn't seem to be enough room to twist, turn and push the hose thru to get it on the connections. Have removed the AC Comp and drive belt, pulled the heater hoses out of the way, removed transmission coolant line hose (underside). Still can't seem to get the hose past the radiator shroud, real TIGHT fit. I have a light coat of oil on the outside, etc.
Does anyone have any tricks or suggestions, would be deeply appreciative of any ideas.
Thanks
Does anyone have any tricks or suggestions, would be deeply appreciative of any ideas.
Thanks
Pro
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 560
Likes: 0
From: Camino CA
Re: Lower radiator hose - HELP (74Coupe)
You will never get the hose on with the shroud in place. On my 81 the fan is just 4 nuts on the water pump, and you can pull it out since you already have your AC out of the way, then my shroud is just 2 bolts at the top, remove the alternator belt and it's out. I'm not certain how different it is with your year. You also might be able to just remove the shroud bolts then kind of move it out of the way with the fan still in place.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2000
Posts: 3,286
Likes: 8
From: San Jose California
Re: Lower radiator hose - HELP (74Coupe)
You may need to remove the shroud. Not easy even when no shroud. Try liquid dish washing soap with a little water for lubricant. Works well and doesn't hurt the rubber.
Chuck
Chuck
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 2,107
Likes: 14
From: Lancaster PA
Re: Lower radiator hose - HELP (74Coupe)
I just installed one on the 73 yesterday and it is a tight fit. I loosend the shroud,shoved the hose through the opening getting it to touch the radiator. Then went underneath and pulled it on. Then went back up and pursuaded the other end onto the water pump. Oh, I forgot to mention the Goodyear hose had to be shortened about 1 inch at the rad end. It definetly can test your patience, but so many parts of these cars do, so I take it in stride. Good Luck, Craig :chevy
Team Owner
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 49,198
Likes: 0
From: All in!
Cruise-In IV Veteran
St. Jude Donor '03-'10
Re: Lower radiator hose - HELP (74Coupe)
I got mine through with the shroud still on.
The worst part is getting the hose back onto the water pump. Put some sort of lubrication just on the inside of the hose before you try to put it on. should help.
The worst part is getting the hose back onto the water pump. Put some sort of lubrication just on the inside of the hose before you try to put it on. should help.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 3,399
Likes: 278
From: Olmsted Falls, Ohio
Re: Lower radiator hose - HELP (74Coupe)
Mine went on with a lot of cussing (can't work on cars without it) and skinned & bruised knuckles (badge of a fighter or a car repair guy). But I DID NOT unbolt anything else to get it on or off.
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 347
Likes: 1
From: Walpole MA
Re: Lower radiator hose - HELP (74Coupe)
Thanks for all the help, ideas and encouragement. The lower hose is on and clamps tightened. We did it without taking the shroud off and let me tell you I don't look forward to doing it again "EVER". Please see my next post "I married Mrs Goodwrench and had daughter Ms Goodwrench".
Again thanks to all
Again thanks to all
