I just got a new lower radiator hose. Are these hoses supposed to have a spring inside to prevent collapsing under suction?
This new hose doesn't have one...

 

Well, I started in the Auto Repair business as a Parts Manager, back in 1977. At that time lower hoses DID have a spring, to keep the hose from colasping at higher speeds, due to the water pump, drawing on the lower hose.

Over the years the springs have pretty much disappeared and I do not know why. I might try to email Gates and get an answer.

 

I EMAILED GATES, i WILL ADVISE when/if I get an answer.

 

I decided to put one in. ordered it off of either jegs or summit for around $10. peace of mind basically.

 

Factory Hose Had No Spring, New Hoses Have No Spring

 

Reply from GATES

"Number one, We stiffened up the sidewall material (Newer technology) and secondly, a proper running cooling system running 16 PSI technology would not collapse a hose under pressure"


CHRIS
1144 Fifteenth St, Suite 1400
Denver Co 80802.

 

^^^ This ^^^

The "collapsing lower hose" thing is one of those anachronisms like "vapor lock" that's left over from days long gone. It is ONLY possible in a cooling system that isn't properly pressurized; i.e. one that has a defective rad cap or the like, including those that have been "improved" by the same kind of people that think that cutting up wiring harnesses is an "improvement".

I haven't had a car with a lower hose with a spring in it since AT LEAST the late 70s. IIRC my 78 & 79 Z28s didn't have that anymore, and my 83 CERTAINLY doesn't. No other car I've had since then has either. It's simply not necessary in a properly maintained cooling system so the mfrs don't bother with it.

 

Thanks, guys!...