Need a plan of attack on...

[Brett87lx]

...replacing my heater hose. My 89 SHO has developed a coolant leak in the heater hose where the rubber hose has a metal crimp onto another metal hose. I searched the forum, and it seems the OEM parts to fix this are no longer available. So what i have been considering is either(A)cutting the rubber hose before the crimp and getting a 4 inch piece of heater hose with a couple clamps to replace the existing rubber hose, or(B) buy enough rubber hose to replace the entire peice so that there is no metal hose from the rear of the engine to the heater core. I would like to try option A, but I don't see any good way to get a pair of cutters or my dremel tool in the area to cut the crimp. I need some suggestions on the best way or place to cut that hose, or if you have a better idea for a fix let me know.


Thanks

 

[masho95]

Silicone and duct tape.

 

[ckinart]

I had the exact same thing happen to me last year, and I opted for option A) replace the ~3" section of hose (in blue below):

In order to do so, the most thorough approach is to remove the entire assembly. You'll have to start by removing some of the coolant from the rad (if you haven't already lost enough from the failed hose). Remove the intake tube running from the airbox to the throttle body to clear the area. Unplug the electrical connector shown on the far right in the picture above and then remove the bolt that is pictured directly to the left of that connector (the hard part). You may find it easier to get at this bolt from underneath (I did). Then just undo the clamps at either end and get that whole metal/rubber assembly out of there. Cut off the crimped aluminum securing the failed section of hose to the metal tube and remove the hose. Replace it with another section of reinforced hose the same length and secure it with a clamp. Reassemble, refill the coolant system, check for leaks, and you're on your way.

Hope this helps!

 

[Brett87lx]

Wow! Thanks ckinart! Can't get any more thorogh than that.

 

[autobahnsho]

That's an awesome picture!
You don't usually see that view. Where'd you get it?

 

[ckinart]

That's an awesome picture!
You don't usually see that view. Where'd you get it?

Ford Service Manual on CD.

Corey