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Topic: do I need a spring in lower radiator hose

in Forum: C3 Cooling and Heating Systems


do I need a spring in lower radiator hose

Posted: 9/21/06 5:48pm Message 11 of 13
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CUYAHOGA FALLS, OH - USA
Joined: 12/2/2003
Posts: 6424
Vette(s): 1975 C3 Red, T-Tops, Black Interior. All I need is time and money! Getting there!
Yes, the lower one is more important, but sometimes both are needed.  Some don't need either one.
 
If your hoses are collasping, you may want to also check the radiator pressure cap.   If it's not holding pressure the hose will collaspe easier.   This does not mean it won't if it does hold pressure, but it's less likely.
kstyer2006-09-21 17:50:25


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do I need a spring in lower radiator hose

Posted: 9/22/06 8:49am Message 12 of 13
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Klamath Falls, OR - USA
Joined: 2/1/2006
Posts: 1059
Vette(s): 74 coupe 4 speed 350, 54K actual miles, all original; paint, interior, engine, split bumper. #'s match. 2nd owner, no stress cracks.
Ten15, thanks for the offer to send me your spring.  My old one had a spring, so I will use it.  It looks in OK shape.  Thanks again.....
 
Also another question.   the "universal" radiator hoses as opposed to the premolded ones probably do not need a spring since they are a lot stiffer.
 
To everyone else.....thanks for the input.
 
PS.  Orginally I was going to purchase the SS braided hose, but could not find any long enough for the lower hose.  Has anyone found one??
steves742006-09-22 08:50:34



Steve, Lifetime Member #129

74 coupe 4 speed 350, 54K actual miles,
all original; paint, interior, engine,
split  bumper. #'s match. 2nd owner, no stress cracks.

do I need a spring in lower radiator hose

Posted: 9/28/06 3:35am Message 13 of 13
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Joined: 8/28/2006
Posts: 33

Definitely go with a spring in the lower hose.

 
If you are not concerned about having the car judged, ask your NAPA dealer for the ribbed heavy duty hose in the length you need. We put these on the upper and lower with no issue whatsoever and as I remember the lower cost fewer than ten dollars US. These are manufactured straight in shape, however are flexable enough to negotiate the tight turn without coming in contact with the frame.
 

The rationale for changing from (New OEM lower hose) was that we observed that when the throttle was pulled back on the carb significantly, the lower hose CRUSHED and collapsed on itself for a second or two. This was one of many inexpensive things that eventually cooled our system down.

JB




in Forum: C3 Cooling and Heating Systems


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