72 Another radiator hose question

[Rey S.]

The short elbow hose from the top of the water pump to the front of the intake manifold, This short hose and the heater hose both attach before the thermostat. Could this short hose be blocked off ?
Thanks

[Joe L.]

Re: 72 Another radiator hose Qestion

The short elbow hose from the top of the water pump to the front of the intake manifold, Is this hose absolutely needed or can it be blocked off as there is other routing through the heater plumbing and fill tank to the intake manifold ?
Thanks

Rey------


The hose in question is part of the coolant bypass system. There are several functions which this system provides. One is to provide some coolant flow in the event the thermostat sticks closed. All original big blocks were equipped with this bypass. Can it be eliminated? Yes, it can. In fact, some aftermarket manifolds don't even have provisions for the bypass. Would I ever eliminate the bypass on a big block of mine? NEVER.