340HP top radiator hose length.

[Richard G.]

The replacement was so short I thought it was defective.
I called the vendor (Zip) and they confirm they were all the same length.
The difference was stark and I was planing to replace it with a different brand/vendor.
So I call Paragon as an alternate source.
I happened to get a informed employee.
He stated their replacement hoses come from Gates and is manufactured from the original print.
And it was very likely they sold the same hose as Zip.
He stated the earlier reproductions were longer.
They even requested a slightly longer hose from Gates to address their customer complaints. They replied "it's to the print!"
He also stated GM glued the ends on from the factory.
So I cut my old hose off, which I didn't want to do till I had a replacement.
I installed the replacement from Zip. It seems to be functional.
Thought I would share my experience.
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[Arland D.]

Re: 340HP top radiator hose length.

How long is the new shorter hose?

[Thomas S.]

Re: 340HP top radiator hose length.

Mine measures 18-1/2”outside bend (longer end). I have a Dewitt radiator. I’m assuming there is no difference in the configuration?
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[Richard G.]

Re: 340HP top radiator hose length.

Here are the pictures of the newly installed hose with measurements.
Looks like about 17-3/8" total length.
I didn't notice the crooked clamp till I took the pictures.
During the install I had two new clamps on hand. I managed to save one of the used ones.
I cut the one at the radiator as I didn't want to stress the radiator in any way.
The used one went back on just fine.
The new clamp screw went to one side and only shortened one side of the new clamp.
So I was thinking I got this covered till the second one also went on crooked.
I was able to get one to straighten up on the vise junked the other.
In retrospect two spares was not enough. Unsure what changed as I have never experience a new clamp failure before.
I now have a full set of spare clamps plus one extra for both the top and bottom hoses.

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[Arland D.]

Re: 340HP top radiator hose length.

It appears that you have the latest 17" version reproduction hose being offered by 'almost' every vendor. Rumor has it that there is a longer version available so, if and when that can be verified, the information will be posted.

[John D.]

Re: 340HP top radiator hose length.

I paid dearly for a NOS Hose years ago. Way too short. I have it in my vendor trailer for years but I could not dare sell it to someone. So I finally the big move. I threw it away in the dumpster. I think I paid about $150.00 for it.