Replacing radiator hoses on most passenger cars and light trucks can be accomplished with the proper tools, a few tricks, some elbow grease and patience. Before opening up any part of the engine cooling system, it is essential to make sure the engine is cold. Work on the cooling system is best performed when the engine has not been running for at least 12 hours. For best results, shut the vehicle off the night before and begin work the following day. Working on a warm or hot engine cooling system can result in severe injury or even death. However, with a little caution and common sense, this repair can be done safely.
After ensuring vehicle cooling system is cold, release pressure from the system by slowly loosening the radiator cap or opening the coolant overflow bottle.
Use the screwdriver or channel locks to remove the hose clamp at the radiator end of the hose, making sure to aim the loosened end down towards your catch pan to minimize cleanup.
If the radiator hose you are replacing is held on with a factory style hose clamp, you will need either hose clamp pliers or channel locks to remove the existing hose clamp. If a worm-drive clamp is installed, simply loosen it with a screwdriver or socket driver.
Repeat this step at the other end of the hose once all the coolant has poured out of the hose.
Discard the old hose and lube both interior ends of the new hose.
Place the new hose clamps over each end of the hose and slide one end over the nipple from which you removed the same end of the old hose. The lubricant will help the hose slide on easily.
Repeat this for the other end of the hose.
Tighten the new hose clamps until the rubber in the hose just begins to squish up through the slots in the clamp band. Do not over tighten the hose clamps.
Once you’ve made sure the hose clamps are secure, refill your radiator or coolant overflow bottle to the cold fill line.
Start the engine and let it run for 10 to 15 minutes. This will allow the coolant to circulate properly and remove any air pockets that may have developed in the system.
Recheck the coolant level in the overflow bottle, making sure it now comes up to the warm engine fill mark.
