'66 L79 UPPER RADIATOR HOSE CLEARANCE

[Rob A.]

My upper radiator hose only clears the alternator belt by about 1/2". It was actually rubbing the hose until I adjusted the tension. Even with the proper tension, it doesn't clear by much. My engine has p.s., all original components and a paragon reproduction hose. The hose seemed too long and I did cut off about 1/2" before installing it. Did I create my own problem?

[Gary S.]

Re: '66 L79 UPPER RADIATOR HOSE CLEARANCE

Let me ask the really stupid question (only because I am guilty myself). Did you reintall the hose with the correct orientation? When I returned my 66 L79 to its original configuration, I had issues with the upper hose hitting the alternator belt. I had inadvertantly installed the hose bass-ackwards and got a lot more clearance when I put the correct end on the radiator. In adition, I gave the upper hose a careful "measure" twist with one end still tied down to the thermostat housing. This extra twist gave me a bit more clearance.

Gary

[Rob A.]

Re: '66 L79 UPPER RADIATOR HOSE CLEARANCE

Gary,

The hose is on in the right direction. I do see, however, that slightly twisting the hose after slipped it on at each end will change the amount of clearance. I'll try that tomorrow. How much clearance did you end up with after installing it correctly? I have no more than around 3/8" right now.

[Rob A.]

Re: '66 L79 UPPER RADIATOR HOSE CLEARANCE

Gary,

I may have found my problem. I double checked the # on the hose and it's for a 300HP engine. Unless the only difference between the hoses is the number stamped on them, that might explain my lack of clearance. I didn't double check the # on the hose when I received it. Maybe that also explains why I had to shorten it.

[Gary S.]

Re: '66 L79 UPPER RADIATOR HOSE CLEARANCE

Rob, I can't answer how much extra clearance I got by twisting the hose. It was a number of years ago, maybe six or seven, and I just can't remember. I do remember that it was enough to allow for the bounce in the alt. belt.
Gary

[Bill W.]

Re: '66 L79 UPPER RADIATOR HOSE CLEARANCE

Rob,

Check to see that you have the correct alternator belt also. Many replacements are wider which allows the alternator to sit closer to the hose. If all else fails, a longer belt will move it away from the hose. Bill

[J M.]

Re: '66 L79 UPPER RADIATOR HOSE CLEARANCE

I also had this problem and installed a belt that was 1" longer. That moved the alternator further on it's arc and gave me the needed clearance.