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Just replaced an old lower radiator hose on my 69 350/300 4 spd, non ac car. Decided to get the GM stamped hose from Corvette Central. The old hose from previous owner came straight off the water pump and ran snugly to the radiator, with a good inch at least between the hose and fuel line. The new hose has a left bend in it coming off the water pump that literally bumps right up on the fuel line (see pics), which doesn’t seem right.
Anyone else run into this problem? Is it a problem with the hose? I can’t imagine a hot radiator hose should be butting up against a fuel line. I saw a picture of another engine like mine and the hose was not curved like my new one, rather came down straight off the pump. Just wanted to get some feedback before replacing this new hose! Thanks!
Mel, thanks for the quick response. Yes, that’s the hose I ordered. I know the one I took off was just a cheap replacement, but definitely fit much better, without that strange curve toward the engine coming off the pump, which makes no sense. Can’t understand why the new “original” type hose fits so awkwardly. Was curious if others experienced the same thing, or if I’m over thinking it and should just leave it alone, but having it right up on the fuel line doesn’t sit right with me. Before I go to plan b ( finding a hose without the weird curve ) I did think to trim a piece off the bottom as you also suggest, but it may put stress on the radiator hose inlet.
Mel, thanks for the quick response. Yes, that’s the hose I ordered. I know the one I took off was just a cheap replacement, but definitely fit much better, without that strange curve toward the engine coming off the pump, which makes no sense. Can’t understand why the new “original” type hose fits so awkwardly. Was curious if others experienced the same thing, or if I’m over thinking it and should just leave it alone, but having it right up on the fuel line doesn’t sit right with me. Before I go to plan b ( finding a hose without the weird curve ) I did think to trim a piece off the bottom as you also suggest, but it may put stress on the radiator hose inlet.
If the length of the hose is what's pushing it against the fuel line you should be able to push it further onto the lower radiator neck even if you have to trim some material.
if you attach it to the pump first does it clear the fuel line?
Might be a silly question, but are you sure you don't have it flipped end for end? In other words, would it fit better with the fuel line and frame if flipped?
The '72 AIM says to install it with the hose markings at the radiator – I don't know how well the repro hoses follow this detail.
The curve towards the engine is normal for the hose. Why? Who knows? On my ‘71, I do remember trimming a bit on the rad end to bring that curve forward a little bit. This was 2 years ago on a Rock Auto replacement hose, I think it was Gates brand. They probably all come off the same production equipment at this stage, anyway.
Not counting the odd shape, or the possible need to trim the ends, does the hose still have the spring inside to keep it from collapsing? Now is the time to fix that, too.
The hose is properly positioned…even has an arrow pointing to radiator. As much as I hate to pull the hose off again, I will try to trim a bit off the bottom and hope it helps. If I can get a half inch separation from the fuel line I’ll be happy. I wish parts would fit like they’re supposed to!! Thanks to all for your comments and suggestions
69 lower radiator hose issue
