Understanding Cooling System Hoses

In the design of an engine cooling system, hoses of various type are used for coolant circulation. These hoses are of different material properties as some are design to withstand the heat of coolant whereas others can take just cold coolant.

As the engine creates tremendous heat, the cooling system begins to transfer coolant from the radiator. The radiator contained upper and lower hose which is the widest hose used in the system. Through the lower, the coolant is transferred to the engine and follows the upper hose back the radiator for cooling. So, the upper radiator hose is designed to withstand heat.

Today we’ll get to know the definition, function, diagram, types, working principle, and symptoms of bad and failing hose used in an automobile engine.

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What is a hose?

A hose is typically a rubber component which is design to convey the flow of coolant from one spot to another to ensure proper circulation of coolant around the engine. Modern automobile cooling system contains many hoses with various purposes, although they look complex their working is ideal, these hoses will be further explained.

The basic automobile cooling system hose is the upper and lower radiator hoses. These hoses look the same but they cannot be interchanged because they are designed for different purposes just as stated. Other functional hose includes the overflow tank hose, heater core hose, and thermostat hose. These hoses are fitly tight with fittings to other parts of the engine.

Functions of Hose

Below are the functions of hose in automobile cooling system:

• The primary purpose of a hose is to carries the coolant through the engine at an optimal temperature.
• Its design withstands the vibration produce by the engine.
• With the hose, coolant bypass the radiator back to the engine.
• The pressure cap bled off hot coolant to the overflow tank. This prevents the cooling system from damaging or leak.

Read more: Understanding Engine Lubrication System

Diagram of hose:

Types of Hose

Below are the various types of hose used in various automobile cooling system components:

Lower Hose:

The lower hose is one of the large hosen that cannot absorb intense heat from the coolant. It’s located at the bottom of the radiator connected to the engine water pump housing. Through the hose, cold coolant is transferred into the engine as the water pump also plays its role.

Upper Hose:

These types of hose are the other large hose located at the top side of the radiator. they are designed to absorb intense heat from the coolant since the only hot coolant is allowed to pass through it. This is why the upper and lower hose cannot be interchanged. As coolant absorbs heat produce during the combustion process, it passes through the upper hose back to the radiator so cooling can occur. The upper hose is known as heater hose.

Bypass Hose:

Since there is a thermostat that ensures coolant reaches a specific temperature before entering the radiator. A bypass hose allows coolant to return to the engine if the temperature is yet reached. The thermostat remains lock, blocking the coolant if the temperature is not yet obtained to open the valve. So, the coolant bypasses the radiator as it follows the hose.

Overflow Hose:

The overflow hose types connect the radiator pressure cap and the overflow tank. As pressure happens to the hot coolant in the radiator and its expansion, the pressure cap open and hot coolant is bled off. The coolant follows through the overflow hose to the tank. This hose is also a heater hose.

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Working Principle

A proper explanation on how hose work will cover the complete description of the cooling system because with them coolant circulates all over. In the various types of hoses used in automobile cooling, we’ve somehow covered their working but you can check out the complete article on how cooling system work to have a more clear understanding.

Watch video to learn more on how hose working:

Symptoms of Bad or Failing Radiator Hose

Below are the common signs or symptoms of bad and failing radiator hose:

Leaking Coolant:

if you have a leaking hose, you will see coolant beneath your vehicle. This fluid has a sweet smell. Leaking coolant can also be from the radiator itself which is why a professional mechanic should diagnose the problem. If the hose is diagnosed to be a problem consider a replacement.

Engine Overheating:

If coolant circulation is obstructed, for the sure engine will overheat. As soon as you notice any overheating symptoms, then your cooling system is faulty. In this situation, the hose may not be the issue but they are one of the common cause of overheating. You should quickly reach out to your mechanic to fix the issue as this issue can cause complete breakdown to the engine.

Read more: Things you need to Know about Automobile Radiators

Low Coolant:

The warning light turns on if this issue occurs, as you keep topping up the radiator with coolant. There be a leak on the hose that pouring away the coolant. the leak will be obvious as drops when the vehicle is parked. Risking the drive of such a vehicle can damage its component before reaching the destination as the engine can stall or overheat.

Damaged Radiator Hose:

A damaged radiator hose is soft and has become weak. You’ll notice this if you touch the hose. A problem from the complete cooling system will cause the hose to collapse. General inspection or maintenance should be carried if you notice this issue. A damaged hose won’t be able to flow coolant properly which may result in overheating and engine damage.

Broken Radiator Hose:

A broken radiator hose is a sensitive problem that must be carefully examined. It combines checking for leaks, swellings, collapsed, cracked, holes, or soft portion in the hose. A professional should consider doing this or a DIYer who can take his time doing such. Consider changing the hose if confirmed with any of the listed issues.

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In conclusion, radiator hose is a great component in an automobile cooling system as it aids coolant circulation. We’ve seen the various parts and areas that use a hose and their functions. We also looked at the common symptoms of a bad and failing hose.

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