Heater hose question

[SHORTDOG99]

Do you have to use the OEM "cloth" style heater vent hose or can you use the same diameter aluminum heater hose from like Hope Depot? Is there any heat issue behind the dash i can run into using the aluminum hosing? or are both styles basically the same?

[SHORTDOG99]

I was reading my post and just to make it clear...I am referring to the heater duct hoses that run to the vents...NOT the rubber heater hoses that are in the motor compartment. I was sure if i was explaining it clearly.

[oldcouple]

You mean this stuff? http://www.summitracing.com/parts/DAC-80170

[SHORTDOG99]

Well yeah, that hose but i can get original style duct hose with the GM stamp on it for that price, i was just wondering if regular ol' duct hose from the hardware store that i can get for like $7. would work or does it have to be some kind of automotive grade hose?.....duct hose is duct hose....right?

[OrrieG]

Many moons ago I used the stuff from the hardware store on my VW cooler fan to head shroud metal to avoid the high $factory stuff. I'm pretty sure it was much hotter than a heater gets. Stuff from the big box stores is probably rated for dryer vent temps, which in a gas dryer can get pretty high.

[SHORTDOG99]

So i should be okay then..right?

[mknittle]

I don't see why it wouldn't work. the problem is there are more sizes of automotive heater duct hose than there dryer vent hose. so you may not be able to get the size you need.
I think what orrie is saying is that old Volkswagen's used heat from the exhaust tubes, sort of a tube in a tube so if the dryer vent hose worked in that heat it should work for the truck heater that is not near as hot

Let us know what you find out

[SHORTDOG99]

Right on! Thanks, now to find the right size.

[54 jimmy]

for $10 at the auto store i bought that air cleaner pre heater hose. it is silver foil type hose worked great had to put a sleeve in the middle to connect two piceces of it but it was cheap and should hold up to the heat.

[mr48chev]

Most auto parts stores have or can get the paper type defroster hose in various lengths.
If there is a Napa or Carquest around check with them for it.
here is a link to some at Napa http://www.napaonline.com/Catalog/Re...&Dk=1&Dp=3&N=0

[mknittle]

Originally Posted by mr48chev

Most auto parts stores have or can get the paper type defroster hose in various lengths.
If there is a Napa or Carquest around check with them for it.
here is a link to some at Napa http://www.napaonline.com/Catalog/Re...&Dk=1&Dp=3&N=0

LOL, I am familiar with that web site. Our local Napa store is so inept If I don't have a part number they cant find anything, and most of the time with a number they still cant find it!