How to Replace the Heater Hoses in a Pontiac Bonneville
The heater hoses in a Pontiac Bonneville connect to the engine's heater core and direct heat to the car's interior. You should check heater hoses on a regular basis, usually in the spring and before winter, to confirm they are free from damage and leaks. If you find a problem, you can replace the heater hoses rather quickly and easily.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Drain pan
- Sealable container
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Utility knife
- 2 New heater hoses
- Multipurpose cleaner
- Gasket sealer
- Coolant
Instructions
-
-
1
Check the Bonneville heater hoses for bulges or soft spots. If you find any mushy or brittle spots, replace the heater hoses.
-
2
Shut off the engine and drain the radiator. Open the petcock fitting near the bottom of the radiator and allow the coolant to flow into a drain pan. Transfer the coolant to a sealed container and keep it away from children and pets because it is very toxic.
-
-
3
Take off the heater hose clamps using a screwdriver or pliers. Slice the old hoses with a utility knife to loosen them and take them out of the engine compartment. Don't pull or struggle to remove the old heater hoses because you may damage the heater tubes.
-
4
Wipe the fittings clean using a multipurpose solution. Apply gasket sealer to prepare the new heater hoses for a proper fit. Make sure to put sealer only on the fitting to prevent clogging. Position the clamps exactly at the ends of the hoses.
-
5
Feel the fittings. Once you're sure that you positioned the hose and clamps properly, put coolant in the radiator and maintain a level midway to full for proper functioning of the system.
-
6
Start the engine and check for leaks. Look at the Bonneville's coolant level. If it's normal and you see no leaks, then you installed the hoses correctly.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Flush the cooling system regularly to stop your Bonneville's heater hoses from rotting on the inside. Also ensure that your coolant gauge remains at least half full as this will keep your car running smoothly.
