Hoses and Clamps Inspection: Notes

The proper operation of the cooling system depends on the hoses and clamps being in good condition. Yet, these items are often taken for granted and overlooked. When these oversights occur, roadside emergencies will follow which will lead to low customer satisfaction. These problems can be avoided by proper physical and visual inspection of hoses and clamps.

Hoses should not only be checked by means of a thorough visual inspection, but also by squeezing each hose along its entire length. Look for these problems:

Fig 1: Sponginess
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
1. Sponginess: If the hose collapses too easily as you feel along its length, it indicates deterioration and that means the hose should be replaced.
Fig 2: Bulging Or Swelling
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
2. Bulging or Swelling: If you see this on the hose, it means there has been weakening under pressure, and replacement is again indicated.
Fig 3: Brittleness
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
3. Brittleness: If as you feel and wiggle the hose it has a feeling of brittleness, an immediate replacement is required.
Fig 4: Cracking At Point Of Attachment
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
4. Cracking at the Point of Attachment: If seen during your visual inspection, immediate replacement is needed.