I have a 2003 Expedition with the 5.4L, I think my lower radiator hose is collapsing, so I got a new Gates hose.

Problem is, I can't get pliers on the hoes clamp on the engine side of the hose. I can see the hose clam if I am under the truck, but can't get to it. I can get my hand to the hose clamp with a small set of pliers if I stick my arm up and along side the oil filter, but can't get enough leverage to move the clamp.

What is the trick to getting to that end of the hose?

Thanks much
eisman

 

Does the lower hose feel very soft ? Have you in fact seen the hose collapsing? Are you having overheat issues ? Usually the lower hose collapses due to a clogged radiator or other restriction to flow. Thermostat stuck closed, clogged radiator, etc .... Do you have long handled needle nose pliers available ? Any Harbor Freight or Sears tool dept would have them.


-Mike

 

It is soft compared to the new one. I thought one of the heater cores were clogged so I flushed everything. I haven't actually seen the hose collapse, but I am having overheating issues.

I just got this truck from a used car lot, the oil was very low and the consistency of honey. I changed the thermostat and water pump. I also changed the oil and put seafoam in to hopefully think the sludge so I can get more of it out when I change it again (very soon).

I do have the pliers, just cant see a way to get to the clamp. I thought there was a trick.

-eisman

 

New to me, 2003 with 169,888 mi right now. Trying to make it a reliable vehicle.

 

Well hopefully you have some luck with it. But it doesn't sound like it was well maintained by the previous owner(s). Did you get a Carfax report on it ?
But the hoses are just held on with standard ring clamps. See if you can get some Channellock pliers on it and spin it to where it's more accessible. The block drain is that allen headed plug there under the rear freeze plug on that side of the block. You can easily see it laying under there looking up at the block. Might as well pull that too. But clogged heater cores and motor oil like honey don't sound too encouraging. Use Motorcraft Gold or Zerex G-05 coolant. Not that green crap.


-Mike

 

Did you try getting to it from the top?
If you remove the oil filter will that give you more room?
What if you remove the front driver's wheel and then the wheel well skirt?

 

I did try from the top, I also took the splash guard and driver's front tire off. If I take the oil filter off I will have more room, I may just cut the hose. Thanks for all the suggestions!