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After springing a leak in the original radiator of my 59 Fuelie, I followed the advice from those that advocate getting an aluminum Griffin repro versus recoring the old one. I have a bias for reliability versus originality when it comes to my car's ongoing project. Twice now, the lower radiator hose leading to the front of the engine has popped off. My mechanic blamed the first one on the original spring type clamp. He some how thought I would be more concerned with originality when it came to the types of clamps used on the new Griffin. He replaced it with the screw type clamp, which were supposed to be better - and it popped off again after a recent little cruise in 80 degree weather. It seems odd to me that both times it occurred after the car stopped and sat for a while before it popped. What gives? As always, your help is appreciated. - Kevin
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Re: C-1 radiator hose clamps
A few thoughts that come to mind: It sounds like something is building pressure in the cooling system. Heating up after shutdown is normal and pressure would increase. If the system were overfilled with coolant and the radiator cap was not allowing it to "puke" for some reason, then the weak link might let go. Can you get your radiator cap checked to be sure it actually relieves at the set pressure?
Does the radiator neck have a bulge that the hose goes over and the clamp goes behind? Most do, and I would presume this one does also. Does the hose fit properly, ie no excess bends or strain?
I have no idea what's wrong with your car, just some random thoughts of things to check. -
Re: C-1 radiator hose clamps
i would check to see if you have any restrictions. there is nothing wrong with the original clamps as they work great. do you have the spring in the lower hose?Comment
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Re: C-1 radiator hose clamps
The clamp/connection that is giving away is the lower hose to the engine. I will check the radiator cap. Thanks.Comment
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Re: C-1 radiator hose clamps
Make sure ALL of the engine paint is removed from the area on the water pump that the hose fits over. Antifreeze seems to dissolve the paint and make a wonderful lubricant which allows the hose to slide off. My waterpump lost the 'ridge' that holds the hose on long ago. The hose hasn't come off of the clean metal so far. Good luck.Comment
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Re: C-1 radiator hose clamps
The spring clamp that popped off was on the lower hose that leads to the water pump. It was replaced with the screw type clamp - and it popped off too. By the way, the car was not overheating at all during the drives (180 degrees and less). So my guess is there is not a restriction in the cooling system. If that is a bad assumption, let me know. Thanks.Comment
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Re: C-1 radiator hose clamps
I am sorry but I did not know there is a spring inside the lower hose, and therefore misunderstood your question. Yes it is in there. What purpose does it serve? Thanks.Comment
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Re: C-1 radiator hose clamps
The lower hose is a suction hose and the spring keeps it from collapsing. That usually results in cooling problems with the engine running, and typically at higher speeds.Comment
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