‘08 Subaru Forester upper radiator hose
- Thread starter Soobs
- Start date
You don't need to drain much from the radiator but use a OE hose and new OE clamps. Do not use Gates, Dayco or other aftermarket and worm clamps. that is asking for problems.
Yep I ordered an OE hose. I figured the existing original clamps could be reused though?
Some say spring tension clamps weaken with time, and I'm sure that's possible as all metals can fatigue.
Personally, if they don't "feel" weak I reuse them and just keep an eye on them. My hand dyno may be wildly inaccurate, though. Generally I'd rather have a used spring tension clamp than aftermarket worm drive, if those are my choices.
Sure they can but nothing like finding out you have weak clamps after its all done. After 16 years they may not be the best, I just change them its easier for me anyway.
You can, but you might as well buy new clamps anyway.
Everyone,
Thanks for the advice! I decided to go ahead and order new clamps and both the upper and lower hoses (all OEM) since they're both original. I'm replacing because the upper hose has signs of leakage at the connection from the engine. Anywho, this will obviously be a full drain & refill on the coolant too with both hoses getting replaced.
Thanks again.
Thanks for the advice! I decided to go ahead and order new clamps and both the upper and lower hoses (all OEM) since they're both original. I'm replacing because the upper hose has signs of leakage at the connection from the engine. Anywho, this will obviously be a full drain & refill on the coolant too with both hoses getting replaced.
Thanks again.
You don't need to drain anything, but you will spill more coolant and make a bigger mess if you don't.
That could be a indicator of a weak clamp or pitting in the aluminum connector at the crossover pipe, clean it good with a small wire brush and use some Hylomar or high tack on the pipe before pushing the hose on and clamping it.
Interesting, I hadn't thought to grab any sealant. So after cleaning just apply some Hylomar Blue on the pipe and slide the hose on?
That's it. I will not hinder removal in future but insures a good seal, good insurance especially on pitted and plastic fittings that like to leak when the temps drop to the 0f range if a worm or weak clamp is used.
Thanks for the tip. My local store didn’t have any Hylomar, but I picked up Permatex Super High Tack Gasket Sealant. The package says “seals hose connection & rubber, paper, & cork gaskets.” Assuming this is fine?
