57 Lower Radiator Hose

[Thomas Z.]

In a 57, is it necessary to remove the radiator to replace the lower radiator hose? Regarding reassembly, in the GM Service Manual they talk about attaching the lower hose to the radiator before reinstalling the radiator. They say you should force the hose past the stabilizer bar that's in the way. Is this really the best procedure? I'm amazed at how difficult this whole operation is. What am I missing?

[Gerry P.]

Re: 57 Lower Radiator Hose

Tom - I'm not a expert but when I re-installed the radiator in my '57 a couple of yrs ago, I remember thinking that I'd probably have to remove the radiator if I ever needed to replace the lower hose as there isn't a lot of working space down there. I'm getting ready to replace my radiator with a DeWitts so will know more when I tackle the job again in the next few days.
Gerry

[David S.]

Re: 57 Lower Radiator Hose

Been there and done that.
Best is to remove the fan and Fan shroud.
About the only way to get the radiator hose clamp on especially if you want to use a corbin clamp.
Leave the radiator in place.
Dave

[Art B.]

Re: 57 Lower Radiator Hose

Been there and done that.
Best is to remove the fan and Fan shroud.
About the only way to get the radiator hose clamp on especially if you want to use a corbin clamp.
Leave the radiator in place.
Dave

That is what I did. In removing the old hose, I simply cut it in two. In putting the new hose on I warmed it in hot water so it was flexible.

[Thomas Z.]

Re: 57 Lower Radiator Hose

Thanks very much for the advise. I cut the lower hose in half. Both of the corbin clamps were positioned so that the ends were totally inaccessible. I cut through the lower clamp with a disc in my Dremel tool, and took the other one off after removing the water pump. Everything went well. Reassembly shouldn't be a problem. The radiator is staying right where it is. Thanks again.