Lower radiator hose

[k4vbb]

Blew an upper radiator hose on my way out to Phoenix last month. Super easy fix, though.

So today I decided to change out the lower radiator hose before it gives out in a less than optimal area and time. Easy -- not so much. There's a regular hose clamp on the engine side. On the radiator side there is a twist-lock mechanism. Bend back a tab, twist the hose 45 degrees in either direction, and pull the hose off.

Sounds easy in practice, but after a hose has been on there for however many years, it's not so easy to twist. Once twisted, it's not so easy to remove, and requires very careful prying to get the hose off of the radiator spout.

While I have the language to describe exactly how I feel about this design, it would promptly be removed from this site. All I'll say is that whoever designed this interlock mechanism better hope I NEVER run across them.

My advice to any of you is to address this hose BEFORE you have to, under controlled conditions, and when you have time to get the job done. Lubricate the inside of the new connector well with silicone grease, and lubricate the O-ring's, as well. This way you're not passing on the insane design problem to the next guy who will have to change that hose out.

 

[Billme]

I feel your pain, and I did what you said.. Good men think ahead..

 

[bb37]

My advice to any of you is to address this hose BEFORE you have to, under controlled conditions, and when you have time to get the job done

The alternator on my 2002 SSV failed several years ago. When I changed it, I changed the serpentine belt and the upper and lower radiator hoses. I was in the area, so it made sense. Getting the old lower hose off was the worst part of the whole job.

 

[ZigZagFred]

I had to deal with a blown-out heater hose. These things were designed to go on easily and fast while a vehicle rolled down the assembly line. They were NOT designed for fast replacement. It took me three afternoons to remove my heater hose. It took me about 15 minutes to install the new one. I echo the advice given here: if you have a few miles on your buggy, and you're planning a long trip, replace your hoses before you go.