FMS Hose replacment kit

[jgerma01]

Hey guys, I recently purchased FMS replacement hose kit (blue) from Summit, expecting it tomorrow
I was wondering how difficult it is to replace all of the hoses. The upper and lower radiator hoses seem easy enough, I just have to drain the radiator completely correct? How about the other hoses like the heater core bypass hose? Any tips or advice on installing all of these hoses?

I have an 87 GT btw, shouldn't make a difference though
Thanks again guys

 

[BlownFiveLiter]

It's really not a difficult task, although it does require completely draining your cooling system, so it may not be a bad time to run to your local auto parts store and buy a flush kit, while you're doing it. All of the hoses on the engine can basically be manhandled into place, but the ones you'll want to be most careful of are the two heater core hoses. First, ensure the hose has the restrictor inside (should be the larger feed hose, if I recall correctly), and then cut the ends open so the old hose will come right off. A dab of coolant, soap, etc. inside the new hoses when putting them back on may be the difference between your heater core surviving and having to replace it because one of the solder joints broke. Good luck!

 

[time only]

I get a kit from 5.0 Resto. I don't want to take a chance with the heater core hose. So let sleeping dog...
Those short little hose on the water neck housing is a pain to put on. Not much room to play around with. I ended up have to put one of the hose end on the water neck housing first.

 

[jgerma01]

Thanks for the input guys, I am prob not going to change the heater core hoses, the old ones are still decent and they're prob not worth it to change right now.
I have 2 quick questions, i cut off all of the old hoses and am ready to put on the new ones. Should i use a sealant when putting them on or will the clamp be enough to keep em on tight.

Second, the old lower radiator hose had a spring in it, should I resuse it in the new hoses or dont even bother.

Thanks again

 

[BlownFiveLiter]

There's no sealant necessary, as the clamp should do it. If there's no spring in the new lower hose, it definitely needs to have one installed into it.