Lower radiator hose to frame clearance? 350HP AC car

[Robert W.]

Hi, I'm ready to put my new lower radiator hose in (GM) and was wondering how much clearance between the hose and the frame is needed? Right now it's laying across the frame member and it clearly needs some cutting to properly fit. It's an AC car so there's not a huge amount of space above either (AC belt). Thanks!

[Leif A.]

Re: Lower radiator hose to frame clearance? 350HP AC car

Robert,
The best advise I can give you is to be sure the install the lower hose in the correct direction and orientation. It will go on both ways but only one way is correct. If I remember correctly there should be arrows on the hose pointing towards the radiator. Put a light coating of lubricant on the interior ends of the hose to allow you to wiggle it around a bit to properly orient. Also, be sure the hose you're installing has the inner spring.

[Larry M.]

Re: Lower radiator hose to frame clearance? 350HP AC car

Robert:

As Leif says, be sure to install hose in proper direction, as it appears at first it can go either way. As you noticed, there is not a lot of clearance between bottom hose and AC belt. Recognize that the belt is in tension on the upper side, so it remains flat. However, the belt is in compression as it goes past the bottom hose, and it can and will buckle and wobble a bit with engine RPM and AC compressor load. I cut my lower radiator hose with the belt at this location during a high RPM run..........although I was lucky as it did not go completely thru the radiator hose wall. But it was close.

I have since made up a metal covering for the hose at this location using the proper diameter exhaust tubing for a snug fit. About 2 to 2-1/2 inches long x 2-3/16 inches ID. I also made a lengthwise cut across the tubing so that it can slightly open up as the lower radiator hose expands with system pressure. Painted black. Doesn't look too bad, and provides extra protection for a cut hose if AC compressor belt loosens a bit or you run up the tach a bit too high with the AC running. The snug fit keeps it from sliding around on the radiator hose.

FWIW.

Larry