How to Replace a Loose Radiator Hose

Leaking radiator hoses do more than leave a puddle of antifreeze on the ground; they leave your engine at risk for overheating. Replace a loose radiator hose that leaks fluid to keep the problem from affecting other parts of the motor. A loose radiator hose can cause engine heads to blow their gaskets if the engine runs too hot.

Instructions

1

Raise the hood of the vehicle. Locate the loose radiator hose. The lower radiator hose is accessed from underneath the radiator, while the upper radiator hose can be replaced from inside the engine compartment.

2

Loosen the hose clamps at both ends of the loose radiator hose using a screwdriver. The radiator hose may appear to be stuck to the inlet or outlet end of the hose after the hose clamp is loosened. Pull the hose end free, or use a screwdriver to break the seal of the hose end around the inlet or outlet neck.

3

Remove the loose hose and hose clamps by hand. Slide two hose clamps over the new radiator hose before installing it. Push one end of the hose onto the inlet neck by hand. Push the other end of the radiator hose over the collar of the outlet neck of the radiator by hand as well.

4

Slip one radiator hose clamp over each end of the hose. Begin to tighten the hose clamp with a screwdriver to squeeze the hose ends around the inlet and outlet necks that protrude from the engine and the radiator. The hose connects the engine to the radiator.