upper radiator hose for aluminum radiator

[1970pelle]

Has anyone else had the issue with finding a upper radiator hose that fits correctly over the inlet of the new aluminum radiators ? I have bought the correct one for the truck. But the end toward the rad. is rather small. I took my heat gun and warmed it a bit to fit. It looks a bit odd, Like a snake starting starting to swallow a billiard ball. A hose for a 454 engine is the same part number. Thank you

Ken

[cadillac_al]

Look at a hose from a 70's truck, I think those are bigger at the radiator end.

[tucsonjwt]

I just put a Spectra aluminum/plastic radiator in my 83 C20 454 (see my "Radiator Replacement" thread last week.) The radiator has a plastic sleeve on the hose inlets, and it does not seem to be very securely attached. After removing the rubber shipping cover, I was able to get the hose over the plastic sleeve and it was a tight fit.

I would make sure that you have the correct hose for your truck. Using radiator hose grease (see my post) will help and also makes it easier to remove the hoses in the future.

Different brand hoses will have different amounts of flexibility. I have found that the Dayco brand (usually the cheapest) have a thinner wall and softer rubber - I don't like them for those reasons - but it may be the best hose for your situation. Take calipers with you to the auto parts store and look for one that will accommodate the diameter of your radiator hose inlet tube.

Just a note of caution - use extreme care when pushing/pulling on the plastic inlet tubes. Plastic is not as forgiving as brass.

[1970pelle]

Thanks for the good idea's. I have always used a touch of Vaseline over a grease. Just a preference, after restoring older Harley's you don't mix petroleum based products. Because to older stuff turns back to a gooey mess.

I should have been a bit more clear on my radiator. Its a custom all aluminum radiator.
I double checked my part numbers and I have the correct hose. I fact I'm on my second new hose. My first one lasted one cooling fan cycle, I thought I had the hose secured. The key word here is I thought, once the fans kicked on, good bye hose. I was very lucky the coolant wasn't that hot because I was covered.

Ken