How You Can Replace a Radiator Hose – The Answer is Here

The radiator and heater hose is an essential component of your vehicle’s engine cooling system. Although both of these comprise of the same material but perform different functions. The radiator hose connected to both the radiator and engine to help coolant reach the radiator to keep it cool. It also reaches back to the engine to maintain a specific temperature to stop overheating. Heating hoses transfer the heated coolant to the heating unit of your vehicle. However, a crackling sound is an indication that either needs replacement. It is here many car owners ask how to replace radiator hose.

How to Replace Radiator Hose – Find the Answer Here

The process of changing the hose or radiator is a bit simple. In case, the hose or radiator has to take the coolant and water running out of the system; then one would need a bucket, which can hold at least two gallons of liquid.

We recommend you look online to find maintenance tips for keeping the car radiator functioning well.

Let us look at how you can replace a radiator hose without any hassle.

Remove the Radiator Cap

Do not touch the radiator cap unless it is cool enough to touch, then remove it and keep it aside. Do not remove the radiator cap if it is hot, as the system is under pressure. It can cause the cap to burst off and burn you with the coolant. This is the first step in knowing how to replace radiator hose without any damage.

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Drain the Coolant

Next, you need to place a clean container below the car and right below the radiator. You need to drain the coolant. One can do this by either opening the drain petcock or sliding back the clamp on the lower radiator hose.

Loosen the Hose Clamps

Loosen the clamps from each end of the radiator hose. These either have a spring tension or screw tension design. To remove the spring tension clamp, you need to squeeze it using pliers. Next, you need to pull it back on the hose away from the connection.

On the other hand, with a screw tension clamp, loosen the clamp with a screwdriver and pull it back on the hose. It too needs to be away from the connection.

Remove the Radiator Hose

After you take off the clamp, remove the radiator hose by twisting and pulling it off the fitting. In case, the hose is stuck on the connection then cut it with a razor blade. However, do not cut too deep as it can damage the link. Do not worry, as the hose is expendable and you can peel it.

Make Sure Not to Cut Too Deep
With a Stuck Hose, Cut It Using a Razor Blade (Photo Source: autopartscheaper)

Installing the New Radiator Hose

Now, you can slide the hose clamps over the new radiator, but do not tighten them for now. Slide the hose onto the connector and position the clamps at least ¼ inches from both ends of the hose.

Next, make sure the clamps are beyond the raised bead of the connector. Now, tighten them down. Besides, close the drain petcock, or you can also reinstall the lower radiator hose.

Fill the cooling system with a 50-50 ratio of coolant and distilled water. Make sure to bleed the cooling system for removing air, as it can lead to overheating.

Top Off the Coolant

Lastly, top off the coolant in the radiator and reservoir. Reinstall the radiator cap and run the engine to check for leaks.

Make Sure to Replace the Coolant Regularly
The Car Coolant is Also Important For Those Driving in Cold Conditions. It is Resistant to Cold. (Photo Source: spinny)

End Note

If you want to know about how to replace radiator hose, then make sure to replace it within five years after every 30,000 plus miles. Make sure to get the car inspected from a car expert to know about any issues, which might affect its performance.