Replacing Water Hoses

NachaLuva

NachaLuva

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I'm about to replace the top & bottom radiator hoses (with new SS clamps), just as a precaution. Had a look at the heater hoses & the funny little one under the engine (next to the thermostat), they seem in good condition...what do others think bout replacing them? The 2 heater hoses come to ~$100. If I leave them I'll replace the original wire clamps with proper, modern SS ones.

Or if it ain't broke, don't fix it! :shrug:
 
If they're not soft and bulging they should be OK but carry "something" to act as a temporary replacement in case you get caught out.
 
I reckon it's all or nothing.

if you replace one, it's likely to find a weak spot in another. For this reason I tend to do them all at once.

I'd identify the parts and carry spares, unless you are planning a major trip. e.g. when I did the Nullarbor trip, I replaced all hoses, and kept spares in case of a mishap.
 
I'd replace them all, compared to alot of other cars the ej engine does not have alot of hoses to begin with. But I've also repaired hoses with a load of gaffa tape to get out of trouble before.
 
Gidday NL

I never had to replace the radiator hoses in Roo1 in 18 years ...

If you do split one in use, patch it with insulation or duct tape, then run with the radiator cap removed. Without pressure in the system, almost anything will hold the water in.

I drove most of the way from Brisbane to Adelaide with just such a repair. Just keep a close eye on coolant levels (of course).

IMNSHO, most cooling systems are far too highly pressurised. I reckon 2~3 psi is more than adequate. If it's not, fit a bigger radiator!

Don't get me wrong. I am not against carrying spares of this kind if going somewhere remote; and your car should be in top condition before doing so anyway. It is all too easy to die in the bush, as many have found out the hard way ... :(.
 
Wippels Subaru service department replaced the top and bottom hoses on mine at 5 years but I couldn't see much wrong with them. I replaced all the hoses on our 15 year old Camry earlier in the year and I was surprised at how good they all looked. I just couldn't live with the worry of one splitting though. Cost a damn fortune too.
 
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