Change to gold and new hoses

[Yardbrew]

Well, I've finished off the case of additive I bought a long time ago and will finally make the change to gold (HOAT) antifreeze in my 02 E350.

At the same time it will probably be prudent to change out the hoses. Where is everyone buying their coolant hoses these days? My local Autozone supplies them but needs to know if I have an engine oil cooler hose in the lower radiator hose. I guess I can figure it out. Guess I'll replace the heater hoses at the same time.

What about thermostat and housing? Suggestions?

I have 106K at the present time. Have had no problems and the hoses all "look" OK.

However, I believe it's time.

My plan is to drain it and fill with water a few times and then change out the hoses and fill with distilled water until I get down to the nearly all distilled water level and then add the antifreeze.

Has anyone had any problem getting the block plugs out?

Yardbrew

[whjco]

I had to replace my water pump about 10 months ago which meant pulling my radiator. I flushed the radiator and cooling system, replaced all hoses, serpentine belt, idler pulley and the belt tensioner since I had everything open and easy to get to. I just replaced the thermostat and gasket since the housing was in excellent shape.

It took me a little while to figure out how the quick connects worked on the heater hoses, but it wasn't too bad once I figured them out.

[van_350sd]

Sounds like a plan.

I have had great luck with very high quality hoses from Marine Stores, like West Marine. The Yacht/Boating fuel & water hoses have higher standards and ratings than the automotive hoses. They always have killer Good Year and other brands, many with double layer braids/systems.
It's worth a look if there is a West Marine nearby.

best Scott

[van_350sd]

Here is a place that has the blue silicone hose, I'M going to replace some of my hoses with the blue hose soon. They use the blue silicone hose on most of the P71 Crown Vic's in the Police Cars.

I'M also going to have my serpentine belt replaced. Better to replace it before it breaks, gets old and cracked after 8 years.

Hoses & Fittings -- Fleet Oil and Truck Supply - Heavy Duty Truck Parts

This hose holds up well.

[Alaskapsdvan]

With the changing of the hoses, what about the clamps?

The dealer replaced the water pump for me awhile back(only ones with the tool to pull the fan..) and reused the hose clamps from the factory. Now that it is -25 and has been for the last few weeks there is a leak down around the lower hoses..

Dealer says that there is no problem reusing the hose clamps from the factory, but every one that I have talked to about it says replace them...

Thoughts on this from members?