Lower Radiator Hose Seal - '64 327
Having a problem getting a good seal on the lower radiator hose (radiator side). Tried using tower clamp and worm gear clamp. Any tips? Recommend sealant?
-
-
Re: Lower Radiator Hose Seal - '64 327
Permatex Ultra Black RTV, Surface must be clean and dry and cure for 24hours before you put coolant in the radiator. Make sure there are no pin holes in the neck and the surface is not dented from previous clamps. -
Re: Lower Radiator Hose Seal - '64 327
The first thing to check is whether or not the radiator nipple is round. They distort easily from clamp overtightening.
If it's not round you might be able to reform it with one of those cheap "pipe expanders", but be gentle.
I only recommend using a sealer or cement at a last resort if you can't get the nipple back in round. The problem with this approach other than being a "bubba fix" is that you may never bet able to get the hose off without damaging the hose or the nipple.
DukeLast edited by Duke W.; February 22, 2010, 03:19 PM.Comment
-
TerryComment
-
Re: Lower Radiator Hose Seal - '64 327
I use silicone grease , too, and have stated so before, but I admonish all to use just a very, very, very thin film. Don't glob it on! Years later when you have to remove a hose it should slip off without too much effort with no damage to the nipple, hose, or vulnerable nipple to heater core solder joint.
I did blow a heater hose off my Mercedes once, but it was my fault for not installing the hose correctly.
Now what I do is install the hose and tighten the clamp until I can barely move the hose with light force, then I pull it down until the edge of the clamp interferes with the shoulder of the upset portion of the nipple and will move no further and finish tightening the clamp, but not too tight so I don't damage the hose or warp the nipple out of round. Most guys crank WAAAAAAAY to hard on hose clamps, which is what starts problems.
No blowoffs since.
DukeLast edited by Duke W.; February 22, 2010, 09:38 PM.Comment
Comment