Lower radiator hoses on an 8BA

[flathead4rd]

Any tips on replacing the lower radiator hoses? The engine and radiator are out of the car at present time. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

 

[19Fordy]

Yes, you might want to try making your own hose using copper pipe. These have been on for the last 30 years. You don't need to chrome plate them. I use 4 clamps per hose at water pump connection. Straight hose bought at NAPA. It's a higher quality hose than regular radisaor hose.

 

[Bruce of MN]

Does this mean premolded hoses aren't available? (Total newbie here.)

 

[leon bee]

No. Not sure what this is about, hoses have been pretty easy to get.

 

[19Fordy]

Lower hoses are readily available. My idea is just an option if you want longevity and very durable hoses. Here's some replacements.
https://www.bing.com/search?q=8ba+l...D3SAQg3MDYwajBqNKgCCLACAQ&FORM=ANAB01&PC=HCTS

 

[cas3]

I like to coat hoses with "sil glide", its a silicone gel from NAPA. Makes it easy to push on, and years later you can get them off without a fight.

 

[flathead4rd]

Thanks for all the replies. I already have the hoses and clamps. Just wondered if there was any advantage to installing them in any particular order (engine first or radiator). There is not a lot of room to work down there.

 

[leon bee]

But there is enough room to work down there. I like the hearing about that silglide. I just use Vaseline, it never seems to hurt the hoses.

 

[RalphG]

I installed new lowers on the 52 Merc a few years ago. Either Napa or Rock Auto had them. I can't remember which. It was not a bad job to install.

 

[51shoeboxer]

I had my 1951 radiator recored and I fought with the lower hoses for hours. I eventually found a solution. Lower the radiator all the way down onto the lower U-shaped bracket. Attach the hoses to the lower radiator inlets, but do not secure them. Lube the water pump outlets and the hoses that attach to the water pumps. Raise the radiator while guiding the hoses onto the water pumps. It worked for me.

 

[69a]

Best done from under the car.
It can be a PIA.
This is the method I use.
Use clamps that have the hexagon drive
Adjust the clamps until they have about 1/8" clearance on the hose and orientate them so the screws will be to the outside when pointed up. Put both clamps on the water pump inlet.
Place the hose on the radiator first and gently force it as far on as you can. Don't be too rough.
Now bend it up so the entire hose is above the water pump inlet and get it started on the water pump. It takes a bit of perseverance! Once you get the hose started on the pump. Twist and slide it back until it is back to the end of the machined part. Slide the clamps on and while still underneath, tighten them up until you can just rotate them by hand, and turn them until the screw is facing up. Now you can do the final tightening from the top.

 

[Joe B.]

Whoever installed the lowers on my '50 appears to have shortened them for easier installation. They don't leak and I have removed them more than once, so all is good.

 

[glennpm]

Yes, you might want to try making your own hose using copper pipe. These have been on for the last 30 years. You don't need to chrome plate them. I use 4 clamps per hose at water pump connection. Straight hose bought at NAPA. It's a higher quality hose than regular radisaor hose.

Nice job Jim!

 

[19Fordy]

THANK YOU , Glenn. My homemade hoses are still working fine after many years.
I have never changed them since the initial installation. They are easy to change as all you have to deal with is the short hose pieces.

 

[petehoovie]

Whoever installed the lowers on my '50 appears to have shortened them for easier installation. They don't leak and I have removed them more than once, so all is good.

 

[tubman]

When I changed the engine in my '51, I don't remember having any problems with the lower hoses. IIRC, we never removed them from the radiator and just put it back in. Of course, we had the upper radiator deflector removed, so perhaps that was the difference.

 

[flatford8]

I found it’s easier to put the lowers on while you’re lowering the radiator into place……..Mark

 

[ScubaChief60]

I have found in situations like this that soaking/dipping the hose in very hot water (not boiling water) seems to soften them up and make installation much easier too.

 

[wga]

Sprayed the insides of the hoses and the ends of the radiator and water pump with silicone spray. Slide the radiator end on and push it as much onto the radiator as possible. On the water pump end, get the hose started somewhere along the circumference. Use a radiator hose pick, to insert inside the hose and use it to begin pulling the circumference of the hose slowing around the water pump fitting. At this point, the portion of the hose on the radiator can be moved toward the water pump, as you align the hose between the ends. Then install the hose clamps. It can be frustrating....patience pays off.
This is a Lisle hose pick for example: https://www.zoro.com/lisle-short-of...wE-663TH3DzfFgnTLYg1V12fgzQxQQwRoClxEQAvD_BwE

 

[tubman]

I know I am stating the obvious here, but you folks are aware that the 8BA lower hoses are not just straight pieces of hose, but are pieces with a small offset made for the spedific application.