71 Radiator Overflow Hose

[Seth G.]

The 1971 Judging Manual calls for a "non-ribbed thin walled" radiator overflow hose for an automatic car without an expansion tank. The after-market hoses are all ribbed. Can anyone provide me with the correct diameter of this overflow hose as I would try to find an original replacement. Perhaps other non-ribbed hoses used for other purposes can be found and cut to fit? Thank you!

[Edward J.]

Re: 71 Radiator Overflow Hose

Seth, have you tried Doc Rebuild? Its not likely you'll find a thin wall overflow hose at the parts stores.

[Seth G.]

Re: 71 Radiator Overflow Hose

Thank you. Per your suggestion, I did, but they only sell the ribbed ones for the expansion tank equipped cars.

[Patrick H.]

Re: 71 Radiator Overflow Hose

I suspect that no one makes a correct thin walled hose without ribs.
So, your best bet is to just buy what's available and live with it. You could try to gently sand off the ribs but that seems like a lot of effort.

[Bill L.]

Re: 71 Radiator Overflow Hose

What is the ID and OD of the smooth type hose. The Mustang and Shelby guys have a smooth radiator overflow hose reproduction 1/4" I.D. and a 3/8" O.D. Not sure of the length other than it appears to be more than long enough for a 70-71 corvette without expansion tank.

The Camaro guys have the correct clip that attaches to the passenger side of the radiator.