Any suggestions on lower radiator hose? SBC to alloyworks 32 Ford radiator. Have tried 10 different molded hoses and no luck yet. Haven't gone to flex hose yet but may have to.
The last time I dealt with this, I bent up a wire hanger to mock up the shape that I would need to get from the water pump/water neck to the radiator. Then, I went to O’Reilly’s and after convincing them that they could not find it via year/make/model they let me go in the back and prod around. I bought two or three, and used about 2/3 the best one. You’re just looking for something that seems to have a viable section in it if nothing else. I had a notepad with the part number I used for future reference.
Assuming the bottom radiator connection is on the pass side; Gates #20242 or 20225, depending on how close your water pump is to your radiator.
This is the best method, as long as you can find a place that will let you rummage through their hose collection. If you find a couple of bends that suit, you can always join them with a piece of copper or brass tube of the right diameter.
Instead of using wire, use that flexible aluminum tubing that some manufacturers use to tap heat off the exhaust manifold and direct it into the air cleaner. As used on some '70's Corvettes and others. It's a lot easier to approximate the shape than a piece of wire.
You can also use 2 different hoses with a splicer in the middle if need be or even a section of tubing will work.
I just googled this last week. Hose for SBC to 32 style rad. The consensus was a lower hose for a 57 Chevy. Called local NAPA and had it that afternoon. Fits perfect with a small sliver removed.
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