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Molded hoses vs flexible hoses

18K views 7 replies 6 participants last post by  belchfire 
#1 ·
I was wondering if it was just a matter of opinion, like trying to achieve a stock look etc, or if there were real pro's and cons to using universal flexible radiator hoses over the traditional pre molded kind. I am about to the point in the installation where I will need to buy some, and they are both available for my car
 
#2 ·
adam83 said:
I was wondering if it was just a matter of opinion, like trying to achieve a stock look etc, or if there were real pro's and cons to using universal flexible radiator hoses over the traditional pre molded kind. I am about to the point in the installation where I will need to buy some, and they are both available for my car
If you use a ribbed hose on an application where the hose is installed in a curved position, then there will always be pressure exerted on whatever connections the hose is used on. If this happens to be a fragile nipple connection made of aluminum, the constant stress could crack the connection. I'll use ribbed hoses on straight connections, but prefer molded hoses on a curved connection for this reason.
 
#3 ·
Flex hose look cheap IMHO on a hotrod or classic car. I always spring for the molded hose. With the vast amount of molded hoses out there you surely can find something that will fit or adapt to your vehicle. I used molded hoses on my 34. I can't remember what they originally fit but it's written down somewhere if I need a replacement.

Vince
 
#4 ·
This is an old trick that works,take a piece of coat hanger or welding rod and bend it to the shape that you will need and head down to your local parts house and ask if they will let you check out their hoses bring your pocket tape measure along to check the inlet and outlet diameter,I agree with Tech always try to get a pre-formed hose as it will reduce stress on the radiator outlets.My local Autozone knows me well enough to let me prowl for parts for my '54 project.
 
#6 ·
adam83 said:
Thank you for the information. I decided to go with the pre molded, for the same reasons as you all posted. I am going to start another thread about exhaust header gaskets please chime in!
The only exhaust header gaskets I have had long tern success with are the dead soft solid copper ones.

Vince
 
#7 ·
In my view also pre molded hoses would be better. Molded hoses are common for high volume, non-reinforced hose applications. Compared to a straight hose that has been bent and distorted to fit the assembly envelope a molded hose will offer ease of assembly and reduced risk of kinking in application. flexible hoses are the one-size-fits-all variety:)
 
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