Document v4aLBwjO81LgOpnBe1903mJw
COOLING SYSTEM
Radiator Hose - Continued
components are cured together in the proper shape to be replaced immediately, so it won't restrict the
fit specific needs. The curing process involves the coolant flow and possibly cause overheating damage.
application of high temperature to the hose. Proper
cure is important in holding desired shape, bonding However, deterioration of radiator hose usually takes
all parts in place, and determining long-term aging of place more rapidly from the inside, so outside
inspection is not always dependable. Radiator hose
the rubber parts.
can look and feel good even when it has reached the
CAUSES AND EFFECT OF RADIATOR HOSE DETERIORATION
advanced stages of inside deterioration. Examination of the inside of radiator hose whenever connections are open is a good practice to follow. Frequent out
AIR, HEAT, COOLANT, and OIL contribute to hose side examination of radiator hose and hose clamps deterioration. These four agents may work against and careful inside inspection whenever connections
radiator hose in two ways: by HARDENING and are opened require little time and can save trouble.
CRACKING, which destroys flexibility and causes leakage; and by SOFTENING and SWELLING, which
Conditions To Look For
causes lining failure, rupturing and clogging.
Radiator hose must remain flexible throughout the complete temperature range of its application and during its service life. Hardening of radiator hose increases the difficulty of keeping connections leak proof. Rotted hose may crack open without warning and cause sudden large coolant losses.
Hose failures not only result in leakage, but may also
cause restriction of coolant circulation through clog
ging or collapsing. Rubber particles from rotted hose
linings will clog the radiator coolant tube and are very
difficult to remove. Weakened radiator hose may
collapse causing partial or complete blockage of
cooling system circulation, with resulting engine
OIL SOAKED OR SWELLING
overheating and possible damage.
Spongy ends or swollen hose indicates that it has been ruined by oil or grease.
Coolant and air leaks are also very common at radiator hose clamps. Engine vibration has a tendency to loosen radiator hose clamps causing coolant loss.
HOW TO EXAMINE RADIATOR HOSE FOR DETERIORATION
Radiator hose should be examined on both the outside and inside for signs of deterioration.
The usual procedure to check the condition of radiator hose by outside examination is to squeeze it firmly. If it feels soggy or hardening has begun you can usually assume that it has begun to deteriorate inside, and should be replaced.
One technique that is very useful as a double-check
CRACKS AND BREAKS
on the condition of lower radiator hose is to have Cause leaks that can't be stopped by tightening someone speed up the engine while the hose is clamps. Squeeze. If cracks go to cords, replace hose.
watched. If it collapses or pinches in visibly, it should
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