Found a puddle under the truck the other morn. Tracked the leak up to the top rad hose. A couple of months ago I installed that hose brand new. Hasn't been removed since installation.
I tightened the worm clamp pretty damn tight and I still have a puddle although extremely smaller.

 

I wouldn't think it would matter a lot.

I went w/ OEM, but that is just me. I have gotten good life out of OEM hoses. That said, I like Gates and Goodyear also.

 

Where was it initially leaking, radiator or thermostat end?
I just replaced my hoses when I did the heads and I used Motorcraft since the œ lasted 185k. I also use the constant pressure spring clamps that came on the thermostat end. I too have the coolant bypass kit which adds opportunity for leaks if not tight. Make sure those hose fittings are not leaking.

 

It's at the thermo housing to rad hose. I could actually see water beads. Recirculating kit is fine.

Debating whether or not to purchase a better brand of hose. I believe I still have the factory clamp. May have to give that a try.

 

So, you have decided that there is a better brand of hose? If so, how did you determine one is better than another?

 

I'd go with the spring clamp and post back.

 

Happens every time with my bottom hose so I loosen off, reseat the clamp, tighten, no more leak. No idea what I'm doing wrong as the clamp is on correctly, but it works each time.

 

Tension changes over time, this is why I like spring clamps.

 

I'll take a look at them. Delta is rising so I need to do another back flush, ideal time to swap out.

 

Did you clean off the thermostat housing before putting the hose on? If there is any crud built up on the outside of the housing where the hose goes, you'll get a leak.

 

I tightened the worm clamp hasn't leaked yet but I still feel like if the temp outside is low enough I'll have a small puddle. Funny how leaks reveal themselves during cooler weather with these trucks. I've only been a member here for little over year maybe and coolant leak threads seem to pop up more during this time of the year.