Upper Radiator Hose Difference

[Joe C.]

If anyone can measure the overall length difference between the upper hoses for a 1963-65 L76/L84 and a 1970/71 LT1 with aluminum radiator or 1970/72 LT1 with copper/brass radiator, it would be much appreciated.

To put the question into proper perspective, and to better understand what I am looking for, when I changed out the original intake manifold from a "461" to a "836", the "original" upper radiator hose is now about 2" short.

My intention is to replace the "original" 3827368 hose with a 3946011 or a 3946852, to gain the additional 2 inches.

Thanks in advance.

[Joe L.]

Re: Upper Radiator Hose Difference

If anyone can measure the overall length difference between the upper hoses for a 1963-65 L76/L84 and a 1970/71 LT1 with aluminum radiator or 1970/72 LT1 with copper/brass radiator, it would be much appreciated.

To put the question into proper perspective, and to better understand what I am looking for, when I changed out the original intake manifold from a "461" to a "836", the "original" upper radiator hose is now about 2" short.

My intention is to replace the "original" 3827368 hose with a 3946011 or a 3946852, to gain the additional 2 inches.

Thanks in advance.

Joe------


Without even measuring, I can tell you that the 3946011 won't work. This hose is designed for use with a curved upper radiator tube of the 3007436 radiator. Your 3155316 has a straight tube. A GM #3873842 hose, used for early 1965 L-78 with aluminum radiator with STRAIGHT tube might work, though. Long-since GM-discontinued, this hose is available in reproduction.

I don't have a 3946852 used for 69-72 small block with copper/brass radiator. It might work for you, though. In fact, I'd say this hose has the best chance of working but I expect you may have to slightly shorten it.

[Terry M.]

Re: Upper Radiator Hose Difference

Joe,

My 3946852 measures 20.5 inches long. It is a mild S shape and the length could be measured more or less than my number. For diameter I get 1 15/16 on one end and 1 5/8 on the other.

[Joe C.]

Re: Upper Radiator Hose Difference

Thanks Joe and Terry. That information is helpful.

My existing hose measures 17" in a straight line from the C/L of the inlet to the C/L of the outlet (for lack of a more accurate metric when dealing with such an irregular shape).

It looks like the "852" hose will work. I'm looking for a straight line measurement of about 19". Anything more can be cut off.

[Terry M.]

Re: Upper Radiator Hose Difference

It looks like the "852" hose will work. I'm looking for a straight line measurement of about 19". Anything more can be cut off.

I think the "852" will work for you, but as I said it is not a straight hose -- there is a slight gentle S-bend to it.