How to Change Radiator Hoses on a '96 Impala SS
The 1996 Chevrolet Impala SS is a very popular muscle car with a lot of power. The engine requires coolant like every internal-combustion motor. The radiator hoses are essential to the coolant system as they send and receive coolant to and from the engine. Once the hoses are cracked or damaged it is time to replace them with new hoses and clamps. Always replace both hoses when performing this task. This will save time and aggravation later on.
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Things You'll Need
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Drain pan
- Two new radiator hoses
- Four new hose clamps
- 1 gallon of pre-mixed coolant
Instructions
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Top Radiator Hose
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1
Open the hood to access the engine compartment. Twist off the radiator cap to relieve any pressure on the radiator.
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2
Locate the top and bottom radiator hoses. Place a drain pan underneath the radiator to catch the coolant.
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3
Unscrew the hose clamp on the radiator end of the top hose with a flat-head screwdriver. Slide the hose clamp back to the middle of the hose. Unscrew the hose clamp on the engine end of the hose. Slide the clamp to the middle of the hose next to the other hose clamp.
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4
Pull the hose off by pulling it away from the radiator. Twist the hose to loosen if it is stubborn. Pull the hose off the thermostat housing the same way. Ensure any coolant leaks off into the drain pan.
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5
Place two new hose clamps on the new hose. Push the ends of the hose on to the radiator piping and the thermostat piping. Position one hose clamp over the thermostat housing inlet pipe. Tighten the hose clamp with the flat-head screwdriver until the hose can not be moved. Tighten the other hose clamp on the radiator pipe and tighten.
Bottom Radiator Hose
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6
Unscrew the hose clamps on both ends of the bottom radiator hose with a flat-head screwdriver. The hose will be connected at the radiator and run to the water pump. Pull the hose off the radiator pipe by twisting and pulling off with your hands. Pull the hose off the water-pump outlet pipe. Ensure the drain pan catches the coolant leaking out.
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7
Place two hose clamps on the hose and push the new hose on to the piping of the radiator and the water pump. Tighten the hose clamps over where the hose overlays the piping on both ends.
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8
Look inside the radiator to inspect the coolant level. Pour in coolant until the level is visible at the neck of the radiator.
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9
Start the car up to warm up the motor. Allow the car to run long enough for the thermostat to open. The top radiator hose will be hot once it opens. Pour in coolant until it is full. Twist the cap back on to the radiator once the level is topped off.
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10
Inspect for leaks while the car is running. Watch the radiator hoses to ensure there is no coolant dripping off the hoses.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Purchase the pre-mixed coolant for filling up the radiator.
Always use caution when working around the coolant system. Allow the engine to cool down before performing service.
References
- Photo Credit two hose clamp image by Aleksandr Ugorenkov from Fotolia.com
