Replace a Leaking Heater Hose
Updated: Feb. 12, 2019You don't have to replace the whole assembly
Introduction
Save money on your next heater hose repair by replacing just the leaky hose instead of the whole assembly. All you need is a rotary tool and a new hose.Tools Required
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
- Hacksaw
- Rags
- Rotary tool
Materials Required
- Heater hose
- Reshaping coil
- Worm-drive clamp
Leaky, crimped-on heater hoses can be replaced with new, expensive assemblies. But you can replace just the leaky section for a fraction of the price. It’s simple and cheap to do with a short matching length of hose and a new worm-drive clamp. (You should reuse the factory spring clamp, but you can’t reuse the old crimp ring.) Check with a local auto parts store to locate replacement molded hose sections. Or bring in the leaking section and see if the staff can visually match it to a stock hose for another vehicle.
Project step-by-step (2)
Cut out the leaking piece
Cut through the crimp ring with a rotary tool and cutoff wheel or a close-quarters hacksaw.
Attach the new hose
Slip on the new hose and secure it with worm-drive hose clamps.
If you can’t find the proper molded hose, slide a reshaping coil over a straight section of hose and bend it to the proper angle for your application. The coil will maintain the angle and prevent the hose from collapsing at the bend.
