How to Troubleshoot the Radiator Hose on a Honda Odyssey
Since its introduction in 1994, the Honda Odyssey has earned a reputation as a reliable mini-van. Like all vehicles, however, regular maintenance of the cooling system components--including the radiator hoses--can avoid problems later on. The bottom radiator hose brings hot coolant from the engine to the radiator, while the top hose returns the cooled coolant back to the engine. Both hoses are exposed to the chemicals and heat of the circulating coolant, as well as to the hostile environment of the engine compartment. This results in deterioration of the hoses over time.
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Instructions
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Visually inspect the entire length of the radiator hoses for leaks and surface cracks, blisters, scratches, punctures, worn areas and other blemishes. Hard, shiny spots can indicate heat damage. Worn areas can indicate that the hose is rubbing on another component. Cracks, blisters and bulges all indicate that the hose is weakening and should be replaced.
Pay particular attention to the hose end connections, as these are the spots where cracks often start. Loose clamps can result in leaks, while overly-tight clamps cause the rubber to lose elasticity and degrade.
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Squeeze the hose with your hand. Start at one end and work along the length of the hose to the other end. Squeeze slowly and firmly, both in an up-and-down and in a side-to-side direction. The rubber should feel consistently pliant along the hose length, and the hose should return quickly to its original shape. Watch carefully for hidden cracks that become apparent when the hose is squeezed. Hard spots are a sign that the hose has overheated, while mushy spots usually indicate that the hose is subject to chemical degradation.
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Visually inspect the hoses with the engine running at normal operating temperature. Look for bulges in the hose that become apparent as the hose heats up and is subjected to operating pressure. Look for any evidence of cooling fluid leakage.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not touch hot engine components.
The electrical cooling fan found on most modern automobiles can start any time without warning.
