Replacing coolant hoses,have a few question.

[Z51JEFF]

I want to replace the hoses but dont want to run into any complications.Before I jump into this are there any hidden surprises I should expect,any one hose going to give me a hard time?Im going to get a pair of the hose clamp pliers to make the job easier.Thanks.

[Scrrem]

I want to replace the hoses but dont want to run into any complications.Before I jump into this are there any hidden surprises I should expect,any one hose going to give me a hard time?Im going to get a pair of the hose clamp pliers to make the job easier.Thanks.

Yes, If you have the GM spring hose clamp, the clamp tool will make the job so much eaiser. The only hose the could give you an issue is the small straight host going from the thermostat housing to the radiator. When I did mine, my plan was to repace the thermostat anyway so I had to take housing apart and this makes replacing that hose a snap. After performing this, I really didn't see anyway to repace the hose without doing this. Getting the thermostat to stay in place while getting the housing put back together is a bit of a pain. You need to be careful you don't pinch the thermostat gasket when bolting everything back up. Using two putty knives to hold the thermostat in place works well.
Rich

[GOLDCYLON]

Agree the short hose is the biggest PITA. If your upgrading to silicone hoses the stainless worm gear style hose clamps are the WTG as they dont tear up the hoses.

[8cam]

The short thermostat hose is definitely a pain (I know it was out of necessity, but what a design kludge), but also the lower hose to the water pump. For me that one was a mighty struggle, very tough to get back on the pump with any kind of leverage if you still have the radiator and condenser in place. If I had to do it over again I'd pull the radiator and a/c plumbing just to get some additional room.

[Z51JEFF]

Is there any tricks to removing the thermostat housing?Ill remove the radiator if it makes the job easier.

[Dynomite]

Is there any tricks to removing the thermostat housing?Ill remove the radiator if it makes the job easier.

I would not go that far :D

Getting the old hoses off is usually the worst ......have a razor blade handy to cut the hose length wise over the coupler.

Getting the thermostat gasket to stay into position is most difficult....follow the advice of Scrrem above using a putty knife :thumbsup:

I use a bit of permatex gasket sealant just inside the new hoses before slipping them onto the couplers.