Hoses attached to the heater core are hard to locate. Just insure that the hoses aren't cracking or bulging. On my 25 year old Fiero the hoses were replaced once years ago and still seem to be in good shape. When I replaced the heater core, I kept the old hoses in place.
I somehow "suspect" that the 26 year old hoses, if they are still soft, not bulging or cracked, MAY "still be better" than the New Chinese hoses available today !
The reason I'm asking was, yes, the heater hoses are hard to find in parts stores - but it seems logical that heater hoses and radiator hoses should be replaced at the same time, even though I rarely do.
Two weeks ago I noticed that one heater hose coming from the water pump had to be original. It still had all the factory markings and numbers replacement hoses lack. I was already changing radiator hoses that were also original (and swollen) so I figured what the hell. It looked fine, but the system was already drained and it was easy to get to.
It was stuck to the water pump so I grabbed a utility knife to cut it away. The knife went through the hose like I was cutting butter. Near zero pressure applied, one swipe.
So don't judge a book by its cover, or a hose by its appearance.
Heater, engine-pipe and radiator hoses that are 25 years old should be changed. You will either end up changing them now or end up changing them later. Trouble is that later may be 50 miles from home in the rain in an area with no cell service. Changing water hoses is cheap insurance. Far cheaper than a towing bill and a service station repair. As for hoses I use Gates, Goodyear and NAPA hoses. They are still made in the USA or Mexico.
------------------ " THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Powerlog manifold, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Flotech Afterburner Exhaust, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, HP Tuners VCM Suite. "THE COLUSSUS" 87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H " ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "
I only replace as needed. Either I see a leak, hose feels soft or spongy, or has bulges or cracks. Ive seen specially shaped/molded hoses stay in good condition on older cars for 40 years with no problem. On older Ford engines, I dont think I remember ever having to replace the short 3" hose that connects water pump to timing cover except when i put a new pump on (think that was on the old ' Y ' blocks)
Hoses attached to the heater core are hard to locate. .
Should not be. The heater core hoses that were not available for a long time I have in stock now. 88 with A/C and 84 with A/C. If there are any coolant hoses that are not available let me know and I'll look to have them made.
------------------ Rodney Dickman
Fiero Parts And Acc's Web Page: All new web page!:www.rodneydickman.com Rodney Dickman's Fiero accessories 7604 Treeview Drive Caledonia, WI 53108 Phone/Fax (262) 835-9575
I only replace as needed. Either I see a leak, hose feels soft or spongy, or has bulges or cracks. Ive seen specially shaped/molded hoses stay in good condition on older cars for 40 years with no problem. On older Ford engines, I dont think I remember ever having to replace the short 3" hose that connects water pump to timing cover except when i put a new pump on (think that was on the old ' Y ' blocks)
I think its our age Roger, if it ain't broke don't fix it. but I got to agree, mine are originals and are not showing any problems so as said, if it ain't broke don't fix it. My 1979 GMC yard plow still has all the original hoses on it and it get driven when ever we have snow, any time I have fencing to do around the farm or just need to do something that needs a full time 4 wheel drive truck, it doesn't have 2 wheel drive.
Steve
------------------ Technology is great when it works, and one big pain in the ass when it doesn't
Detroit iron rules all the rest are just toys.
[This message has been edited by 84fiero123 (edited 04-27-2014).]
