Which radiator hose for 69 camaro bb?

[lutzy]

looking to replace these stainless hoses with a set of molded hoses and wondering if stock 69' hoses would work? I need to order them from local parts store so I cant match anything up..any ideas? its a 454. thanks

[HRBS]

your radiator look to be a cross flow design (inlet and outlet on same side).
this is different from the factory design therefor a factory hose for you app will not work. We use exactly what you have there (flex hose) to make a template by bending it to the shape we need and then take it to the local NAPA where the manager knows us and lets us in the stock room to find a match. Thats your best bet IMO.
I would also suggest repositioning the swivel neck to be straight. Finding a hose with a perfect 'S' shape will be easier than finding one that is slightly bent.

[MarkM66]

I don't think stock will work, as the inlet is on the other side.

I would just take the one you have to a good parts store, and match it up with something they have in stock.

[camcojb]

Maybe, but doubtful on the upper hose, because the inlet at the radiator is on the wrong side of the radiator; stock Camaros with big blocks had the upper inlet on the drivers side. Lower one should be fine.

I've always been able to find molded hoses that work by taking a coat hanger or welding rod and bending it into the shape I needed, and head down to the local auto parts store and compare to their hoses. Remember you only need a section that matches your shape, often you end up trimming one end or the other from the hose you find. You also need to know your diameters, usually 1 3/4" up top and 2" on the lower for the standard big block/small block.

That upper one looks easy, especially since you have a swivel thermostat housing; it could point straight ahead if needed and the hose would be a pair of right angles, but I'd shoot for a 45 (135 degree) angle with two straight sections.

[HRBS]

Reposition the water neck and find an 'S' shaped hose like this one:

[lutzy]

Thanks..bent up some wire and went down to the auto store..made a few other changes too..

[camcojb]

Originally Posted by lutzy

Thanks..bent up some wire and went down to the auto store..made a few other changes too..

yep, did good!