My '99 F350 (with 7.3 PSD) has these strange looking quick disconect fittings on the heater core ends.
I understand that there is a special tool made to remove these hoses.
I have a picture of the tool and instructions on how to use it.
I really don't want to spend $30-$50 for the tool just to use it one time, as my new GATES hoses DO NOT have these fittings.
In looking at the diagram it looks like I could possibly put a common hose clamp around the locking tabs on these fittings to act like the special tool would and then just slip the hose off--anyone have any experiance with this?? also:Why would Ford use such a thing?? to aid with assembly time at the factory?? Thanks!

 

They are called quick connect fittings, they speed up the assembly process. They are defineatly not a quick dis-connect as many have called them. No special tools needed, I have used needle nose pliers and a little lube to get them apart but anything that will push the lock tabs will work. Be sure to get a new coupling retainer, spacer, and O-rings. They are available at most autopart stores. They come in a couple different sizes, 5/8, 3/4 ect.

 

Thanks for the illustration, JIM! That explains things so much better!

Are you a Mopar Fan? 'CUDA? I am, I love the 1970 Chrysler Corp. E-bodies the 'Cuda and Challenger. A short five year production run 1970 - 1974 for this body style, but the muscle cars built will live in infamy! Pearl Harbor first and foremost Dec. 7, 1941. Then came the Plymouth 'Cuda and the Dodge Challenger!

Ed

 

It looks by the picture that I have that you need to compress the fitting to get it to unhook, it looks to slip over the ears of the coupling.....or am I misunderstanding and you need to sperad them??

 

Push in on the hose and push the locks together at the same time, then pull on the hose.

Look here:
http://www.gates.com/brochure.cfm?brochure=1025

 

Yep, 1966 Pro street Cuda. Can't afford those 1970's Cudas, rediculous money.
I see you have your priorities in order

 

I have the same quick-connect fittings on a 98 F150 but there is no way to get a pair of pliars on them (can barely get one hand to it). Does anyone know what the tool is called or looks like and where it can be purchased?

Thanks

 

I found the tool at Autozone. It is a loan-a-tool and only costs $12. I used it today and had both hoses disconnected in ~5 min at the quick connect end anyway.