I need to replace the heater hoses but didn't want to spend almost $50 on amazon right now. Anyone here just use straight hose of whatever size the heater hoses are (the ones by the firewall that go to the heater core)?

They are swollen and I don't like taking chances on how long they will last. I'm draining the radiator right now to change out the 3 big radiator hoses.

 

I can't say that I've actually tried those hoses, but I've found very few molded hoses (particularly at that diameter) that could be replaced with a straight hose without kinking.

Of course, you could try it, and see how it works. At first, the kink in the hose would just mean the heat doesn't work. After a while, though, the kink would wear quicker and might be the cause of a leak.

You don't give any details on your rig (yes, it matters) but the OEM hoses for mine run about $45 at http://parts.lakelandtoyota.com/

 

I keep forgetting to say it's a 87 base longbed with a carb.

I went to buy a feeler Guage set to adjust my valves and bought the heater hose. It was only 1.80 a ft so why not right......
I'll post my results

 

If your heater hoses are bad, most likely several others are as well. Another hose I see neglected is the horse shoe water pipe hose and cheap to replace.

Copied from my 88 build:
Gates PN#20801, just cut off where my finger is at. Alot cheaper then the dealer.


Here it is cut to length and on. I need to get some new hose clamps to finish the job.

 

If your using straight heater hose you really have to think this through making the hoses long enough that they don`t kink in the bends .

Easy to use another couple feet of hose.

It can be done but it does not look pretty

 

Thanks for the info
Unfortunately I bought that same hose for the horse shoe
part your talking about and not paying attention I cut the wrong side
I'm on my way to buy another right now lol

 

On occasion, I have used these no kink radius springs when the correct hose was not at hand.

See this:

https://www.google.com/search?q=heat...8LHbQVya-nM%3A

 

I bought 2 feet of 1/2" and 5/8"
I'll try to cut and fit them later. They aren't swollen like the radiator hoses so I feel OK with them for now. I will post my results though.

 

Nice idea. $10.xx on amazon

 

You should be able to get them locally.

Last I bought from Carquest were less than $10.

 

Everything is great, no leaks

I like to worry too much lol I really do appreciate the help and advice guys
I never saw myself driving a truck this age/condition but I'm loving it