radiator/heater hoss

[Bill Heygster]

I figured it was time to flush the cooling system on my 1985. While everything is drained probably a good time to replace all the radiator and heater hoses and clamps. Top radiator hose and most of the heater hoses look fairly straight forward. However the lower radiator hose appears to be in a tight spot where it attaches to the engine below the a/c compressor. Are there any tricks to this installation (move the compressor, etc)?? Anything special to know about the other hoses?

 

[Edmond]

IIRC, removing the compressor was the recommended way. However, when I changed my lower hose a couple years ago, I managed to change it without removing anything. I managed to squirm in there.

 

[vetteboy86]

It sure is sandwhiched in there. I dont know if you can see it from under the car or not.

 

[jimmers]

I had to change mine this past spring and didnt have to take anything apart. I also managed to squeeze my hand in there to push it on and tighten the hose clamp. It was really tough but i got it done. Good luck!

 

[JonM]

The key is using clamps you can tighten with a 1/4 drive socket with extentions.

 

[Bill Heygster]

Thanks for the replies. I've used the sockets to tighten hose clamps before - the only way to go. Anyone have any tricks or cautions on replacing the heater hoses. They look fairly simple.

 

[JonM]

I don't know about your 85, but my 84 has a curved hose going into the back of motor...make sure you get that one. You can get it at your local store prebent.

 

[milehigreg]

Encouraging

I have looked closely at that bottom hose myself and didn't think it could be done without removing all kinds of stuff. After reading what you guys posted, I am going to give this a try myself. Thanks. I will try to keep the cussin' to a minimum while I try to fit that !%#^%!#% hose in there!

Oh. Don't waste your energy trying to pull the old ones off in one piece. Get a blade and cut 'em.

 

[Bill Heygster]

Let's us know how it goes. Still looks like unbolting the a/c compressor might save some time and tension (on you) with the lower radiator hose Good luck. Are you also doing the heater hoses at the same time? Rememebr they can spring nasty leaks too.