Heater hose issue

428street · #1 (**permalink**) 09-13-2008, 12:09 PM

Ok, on to my next brick wall.

I have purchased some original looking heater hose with cloth wrap. I have run into a problem with the hose not fitting the engine adapters and the heater core copper pipes.

I checked both ID's and they are both 1/2"

I tried a heat gun, washer detergent, etc.

I then went to my local parts store and got an off-the-shelf foot of 1/2" and 5/8"

The 5/8" fits fine - maybe a little to loose.

The 1/2" is the same problem.

A buddy of mine came over who does a lot of work of boat engines and said the hose I have in a marine grade and very hard and not pliable by design.

Any thoughts or suggestions?

vettestr · #2 (**permalink**) 09-13-2008, 01:53 PM

Heat a coffee cup 3/4 full in the microwave to a boil. Place the hose in the boiling water and let stand for 3 to 4 min or until a little more pliable. Apply some silicone grease to the nipple you want to push the hose over. Good luck

ZOERA-SC7XX · #3 (**permalink**) 09-13-2008, 03:55 PM

Frank, just use the 5/8. That's what belongs on it.

428street · #4 (**permalink**) 09-13-2008, 04:12 PM

I checked the manual and did some search with the gates number they recommend and it is definitely 5/8"

Rick Parker · #5 (**permalink**) 09-13-2008, 05:38 PM

That hose looks like the fuel rated hose that I bought for use with the push lock type hose ends. Very rigid wall construction.

If you have your heart set on using that hose, you could make, and solder in some custom made nipples. However it may not allow as much water into the heater core; thus reducing the heater output.