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Replacing radiator hoses?

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Old Jun 21, 2007 | 08:57 PM
  #1  
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Default Replacing radiator hoses?

What's the rule of thumb for replacing the radiator (or any other) hoses on a C5? I really don't want to wait until one blows!

Mine is going on 9 years old (but only 53K miles). They appear to be fine but I know looks can be deceiving.
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Old Jun 21, 2007 | 09:58 PM
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In my experience, if the hoses still feel firm when hot, dont show any type of againg, like fade,cracking spongy, I would stick with what you got.
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Old Jun 21, 2007 | 10:00 PM
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unless you are getting cross braided SS ones for the look :-)
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Old Jun 21, 2007 | 10:03 PM
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Rubber deteriorates in about 4 to 5 years (or sooner). That is why tires are guaranteed for about 3 yrs. That is also why DOT requires dating on tires. I used to do mine every 3 years, but I now change hoses at 4 to 5.

Cheap insurance.
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Old Jun 21, 2007 | 10:05 PM
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Originally Posted by Blown 346
In my experience, if the hoses still feel firm when hot, dont show any type of againg, like fade,cracking spongy, I would stick with what you got.
And, the bottom hose will last twice as long as the top because it is always filled will coolant. I've had dozens of cars with 100K+ miles and the original lower hose, never had one burst. Luck or ??.
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