Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Lower Radiator Hose Coolant

[Iron Duke II]

I installed a new radiator a few yrs ago and now plan to put in fresh coolant. Would rather not mess with the drain plug because the o-ring sometimes develops a drip. I've read removing the lower radiator hose is best. Which end of the hose should be taken off, how much of full capacity will come out initially and should I anticipate using something like a concrete mixing container to catch it?

 

[NIsaacs]

Use about 6' of 5/16 rubber hose and syphon it out.

 

[Iron Duke II]

Use about 6' of 5/16 rubber hose and syphon it out.

So completely remove the lower hose and syphon from the lower rad engine block connection?

 

[NIsaacs]

So completely remove the lower hose and syphon from the lower rad engine block connection?

No, just pull your cap and stuff the hose to the bottom of the radiator.

 

[GAmes]

No, just pull your cap and stuff the hose to the bottom of the radiator.

That is what I do unless the hoses are more than 5 years old. Then I replace then all. Don't forget the short heater hose that is under the alternator.

 

[Iron Duke II]

That is what I do unless the hoses are more than 5 years old. Then I replace then all. Don't forget the short heater hose that is under the alternator.

It appears to be this one.
https://www.genosgarage.com/product/gates-20338/coolant-heater-hose

 

[GAmes]

It appears to be this one.
https://www.genosgarage.com/product/gates-20338/coolant-heater-hose

No, the one I speak of is straight hose, the same as the heater hoses going back to the core from the steel tubes. It's about 4 inches long.

 

[NIsaacs]

Maybe this one.

https://www.genosgarage.com/product/3931522-ram-heater-tube-to-block-hose/coolant-heater-hose

 

[GAmes]

Maybe this one.

https://www.genosgarage.com/product/3931522-ram-heater-tube-to-block-hose/coolant-heater-hose

That is what it looks like but a section of bulk heater hose, the same that goes above the engine, would be less expensive.

 

[Ozymandias]

That is what it looks like but a section of bulk heater hose, the same that goes above the engine, would be less expensive.

Wouldn't a silicon hose be better in this position today?

After some downfalls with "bio degradable" rubber hoses lately I switched to silicon wherever possible.

 

[Cummins12V98]

Won a set of Mr Bob's silicone hoses at MayMadness years ago. Nice QUALITY!!!

 

[GAmes]

Wouldn't a silicon hose be better in this position today?

I did a google search and 5/8 silicon heater hose is available, so yes. If I used it there I'd also use it for the hoses going to the core.

 

[Matt42]

In my slow-moving heater core and dashboard replacement project, I installed silicone heater hoses for those that don't have to be pre-formed.

 

[Iron Duke II]

Use about 6' of 5/16 rubber hose and syphon it out.

Is this 5/16" I.D. x 7/16" O.D. hose?