Radiator hose needed for a project

[Joseph E.]

Do any of the members know where I can obtain standard rubber style radiator hose fittings? I need a 45 degree reducer that goes from two inch to one and three quarter inches as well as a 45 degree one and three quarter inch fitting. I found several companies who make such adapters but in silicone rubber, not the same rubber that standard hoses are made of. Does anyone have any experience, good or bad, with the silicone rubber hoses? I'm working on a lower radiator hose for an application that cannot be fit with any type of stock hose so I need to fabricate one. Thanks.

Joe (45420)

[Terry M.]

Re: Radiator hose needed for a project

Do any of the members know where I can obtain standard rubber style radiator hose fittings? I need a 45 degree reducer that goes from two inch to one and three quarter inches as well as a 45 degree one and three quarter inch fitting. I found several companies who make such adapters but in silicone rubber, not the same rubber that standard hoses are made of. Does anyone have any experience, good or bad, with the silicone rubber hoses? I'm working on a lower radiator hose for an application that cannot be fit with any type of stock hose so I need to fabricate one. Thanks.

Joe (45420)

Joe,

Those of us who collect Chevrolet former police cars have extensive experience with silicone hoses. They are a feature of the full size sedans built for police and public service duty. The OEM silicone are green external with a red internal lining, but there is a blue silicone hose set available for our cars from, I believe, Goodyear. IIRC it is called "Hi-Miler."

The OEM silicone hoses are advertised as "life time" pieces and generally are exactly that -- unless there is physical damage. One must use special hose clamps that have a liner to prevent the clamp from cutting into the hose.

Silicone hoses are more commonly available in the boating community, and they sell the best all stainless steel hose clamps for the application. I get the clamps from West Marine, and you might check their on-line catalog for a hose to meet your application.

[Alan S.]

Re: Radiator hose needed for a project

Hi Terry,
I've often wondered about your 9C1 and B4C cars but never looked to see what they are.
I learned this morning that there are even 9C1 and B4C forums.
My view is a little less narrow than it was a few minutes ago!
Regards,
Alan