14 best flexible radiator hoses

Flexible radiator hoses are important components in automotive cooling systems, specifically designed to transport coolant between the engine and the radiator. These hoses play a crucial role in maintaining the optimal operating temperature of the engine. Here is what you should know about flexible radiator hoses:

  1. Purpose: Flexible radiator hoses serve as conduits for the flow of coolant between the engine and the radiator. This circulation of coolant helps regulate the engine's temperature by dissipating excess heat.

  2. Materials: They are typically made of a flexible rubber or silicone material that is resistant to heat and coolant.These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to withstand high temperatures and pressure.

  3. Construction: Flexible radiator hoses are reinforced with fabric or wire layers to provide strength and prevent collapsing or kinking. Reinforcement is important to ensure the hoses maintain their shape and function under the heat and pressure of the cooling system.

  4. Flexibility: As the name suggests, these hoses are flexible, allowing them to bend and fit into various positions within the engine compartment. This flexibility makes installation easier and helps prevent damage to the hose due to engine vibrations.

  5. Coolant Flow: They facilitate the flow of coolant from the engine to the radiator, where the coolant is cooled down before being circulated back into the engine. This continuous circulation helps regulate the engine's operating temperature.

  6. Connections: Flexible radiator hoses are typically equipped with fittings or couplings on each end to facilitate secure connections to the engine and radiator. These connections should be properly sealed to prevent coolant leaks.

  7. Replacement: Over time, radiator hoses can deteriorate due to heat, exposure to chemicals in coolant, and wear and tear. It's essential to regularly inspect them for signs of cracks, bulges, or leaks and replace them as needed to prevent overheating and engine damage.

  8. Sizes and Shapes: Radiator hoses come in various sizes and shapes to fit different vehicle models. It's crucial to select the right hose that matches the specifications of your vehicle to ensure proper coolant flow.

  9. Cooling System Maintenance: Flexible radiator hoses are integral components of the vehicle's cooling system. Regular maintenance of the entire cooling system, including hoses, radiator, thermostat, and water pump, is essential to ensure the engine runs at the correct temperature and to prevent overheating.

  10. Safety: A damaged or leaking radiator hose can lead to engine overheating, which can cause severe damage. Regular inspection and maintenance of these hoses are essential for safe vehicle operation.

In summary, flexible radiator hoses are essential components in the automotive cooling system, allowing the circulation of coolant to maintain the engine's temperature. These hoses are designed to be durable, heat-resistant, and flexible to ensure they can withstand the demanding conditions of the engine compartment and provide reliable cooling system performance.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best flexible radiator hoses on the market
  

48" Black Stainless Steel Radiator Flexible Coolant Hose Kit With Caps Universal

Based on 64 reviews Check latest price
  • 48" Stainless Steel Radiator Flex Hose Kit
  • Kit contains enough ends for 2 lengths of hose
  • This kit can be used with 1 1/4", 1 1/2", or 1 3/4" radiator necks
  • Flexible design eliminates the hassle of finding a rubber hose with just the right bends
  • Stainless hose will not blow or rot out like a rubber one

User questions & answers

Question: Hello! will this fit hyundai sonata 2012? thanks
Answer: it will if you have 11/4" or 11/2" inlets on you radiator and water pump.
Question: can this be cut to size
Answer: Yes, it can be cut to length. Easy to do with reciprocating saw or hacksaw.
Question: can these be linked together to make longer? ? or will I need to purchase more reducers? Thanks
Answer: I wouldn’t recommend putting two clamps on to link together.
Question: can these be linked together ( to make longer) with purchased hardware
Answer: I wouldn’t recommend linking

Product features

Package includes

  • 1x Stainless Steel Flex Hose, 48" length
  • 4x End Cap Covers, Chromed Aluminum
  • 4x Rubber Hose Sleeve Adapters
  • 4x Rubber Reducers, 1-1/4" I.D.
  • 4x Rubber Reducers, 1-1/2" I.D.
  • 8x Hose Clamps
  • Note: Please allow 1-3CM differs due to manual measurement and due to the different display and different light, the picture may not reflect the actual color of the item.

Features

  • Color: Black
  • Hose Material: Stainless Steel
  • Fitment: Universal
  • This kit can be used with 1-1/4", 1-1/2", or 1-5/8" radiator necks.
  • Kit contains enough ends for 2 lengths of hose.
  • Clamps, sleeves, reducers, caps included.
  • Professional installation is highly recommend.(No Instruction Included)

48" Stainless Steel Radiator Flexible Coolant Water Hose Kit With Caps Universal

Based on 222 reviews Check latest price
  • 48" Stainless Steel Radiator Flex Hose Kit
  • This kit can be used with 1 1/4", 1 1/2", or 1 5/8" radiator necks
  • Flexible design eliminates the hassle of finding a rubber hose with just the right bends
  • Stainless hose will not blow or rot out like a rubber one
  • Item exactly the same as picture shown ,Please check the picture before you buy

User questions & answers

Question: reviews say wont fit 1 3/4 neck? Specs say yes? Anyone care to elaborate
Answer: You might be able to get this on 1 3/4 hose but you will not be able to use the nice stainless covers it comes with they won't fit over the hose when on 1 3/4.
Question: I bought two of the 48 inch kits and I am having a problem installing the sealing portions of the clamp on fittingsand clamp on unit over the nipples
Answer: They suck, same here and the clamps damage when you tighten to get proper grip tight on hose. I don’t know what to do with them being that I cut the hose
Question: dose anyone sell just the chrome covers for the heater hose
Answer: Not that I know of. I wouldn't buy this kit. The hose keeps blowing off. I'll tighten as much as i can and give it time it will begin to leak
Question: Would this fit 5.3 LS swap
Answer: This kit never worked for me, I would look for another product. The issue is the connections on both ends, I didn't have any clearance to make them work. The ends are too big. It might work if you have a lot of clearance ? Was a waste of money for me.

Product features

Package includes

  • Stainless Steel Flex Hose, 48" length
  • 4x End Cap Covers, Chromed Aluminum
  • 4x Rubber Hose Sleeve Adapters
  • 4x Rubber Reducers, 1-1/4" I.D.
  • 4x Rubber Reducers, 1-1/2" I.D.
  • 8x Hose Clamps
  • Note: Please allow 1-3CM differs due to manual measurement and due to the different display and different light, the picture may not reflect the actual color of the item.

Features

  • Main Color: Silver
  • Hose Material: Stainless Steel
  • FItment: Universal
  • This kit can be used with 1-1/4", 1-1/2", or 1-5/8" radiator necks.
  • Kit contains enough ends for 2 lengths of hose.
  • Suitable for most hot rods and>
  • High precision and work efficiently and stainless steel hose is wear resistance.

Gates 25808 Vulco-Flex II Flexible Coolant Hose

Gates

Based on 32 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gates Vulco-Flex II coolant hose is a flexible, durable hose designed to bend in almost any direction. Engineered with improved sealing surface for greater leak resistance, this hose easily replicates the angles and planes of a wide variety of expensive OE coolant hoses for quick, easy, and cost-effective replacement.

  • Improved sealing surface for greater leak resistance
  • High flexibility for easy installation
  • Maximum vehicle coverage with minimum inventory
  • Resistant to heat, oil and ozone
  • Rated for SAE 20R5 Class D-2 performance

User questions & answers

Question: inch at both ends
Answer: Good morning Yes, 1.5inches ID both ends. 25.69 inches center line length. Thank you
Question: Why wont put the important details like the size, id or od and length to make the choice easy for customers who build cars
Answer: Hello, If your asking why manufacturers don't put this important information in their descriptions of their products, is a question I've asked myself. This particular hose has an inside diameter of 1.50 inches. with an outiside diameter of 1.93 inches, with a total length of 25 and 5/8 inches. Meaning your waterpump or radiator neck must have an outside diameter of 1.50 ( an 1 1/2) to fit. It would be much easier of they put those important measurments in their descriptions since if you are like me, having an 1947 Willy's jeep, with an swapped Dauntless 225 Buick V6 engine instead of the little 4 cylinder they orginally had, would make trying to find parts that work a lot easier than they have been. It's a nightmare trying to search for parts knowing your own measurments and needs, when they don't include this in their product descriptions. Perhaps if more people would complain, they would do so.... Until then I guess we will have to continue to rely on Shadetree and Backyard mechanics here to help... Hope that helped a little... :)
Question: CuL es la medida de adentro y por fuera de la paipa? O deametro cómosea que le llamen
Answer: Inside Diameter 1 (In) 1.5 Inside Diameter 1 (Mm) 38
Question: What’s the inside diameter
Answer: 1.5

KKmoon Radiator Hose Kit, 24" Flexible Upper Lower Radiator Hose Kit & Stainless Steel w/Chrome Caps V8

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Features: This item is a direct replacement for the old/damaged original hose. For durable long time use, manufactured using reinforced silicone upgraded this hose. It would not broken under increased boost pressures and would not easily damaged. Using raw material mechanical stainless steel material, durable, will not fall off or rot like rubber hose. Flexible design, adjustable hose, adjustable clamp. Fitment: This kit can be used with the 1-1 / 4" radiator neck. Specifications: Hose length: 24" Hose diameter: 1-5 / 8" Accessories: 2 pieces Stainless steel hose clamp: 4pcs Package Size: 40*27.5*6.5cm/15.75 *10.83 * 2.56in Package Weight: approx. 790g / 27.87oz Package List: 1 * Hose Clamps 1 * Rubber Sleeve Adapters 1 * Reducers

  • This item is a direct replacement for the old/damaged original hose.Fitment: This kit can be used with the 1-1 / 4" radiator neck.
  • For durable long time use, manufactured using reinforced silicone upgraded this hose.
  • It would not broken under increased boost pressures and would not easily damaged.
  • Using raw material mechanical stainless steel material, durable, will not fall off or rot like rubber hose.
  • Flexible design, adjustable hose, adjustable clamp.

User questions & answers

Question: How many hoses come in this package
Answer: Just one hose comes in the package.
Question: I know the caps are chrome, the chrome is on what? plastic, aluminum, stainless steel, or steel
Answer: It's stainless or steel not sure which one.

Spectre Performance 7781 Magnakool 24" Radiator Hose

Spectre Performance

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Spectre’s Magna-Kool Radiator Hose Kits are made from chromed stainless steel tubing and are available in 12 inch, 20 inch, 24 inch, 30 inch, 36 inch, and 48 inch lengths. These hoses can be formed by simply bending them to the desired shape, and can also be cut to length with a hacksaw. This kit includes Magna-Kool radiator hose, 1-3/4 inch rubber hose ends, 1-1/2 inch adapter inserts, 1-1/4 inch adapter inserts, and stainless steel hose clamps. Choose a kit with or without end covers. This kit can be used for 1-1/4 inch, 1-1/2 inch and 1-3/4 inch applications.

  • Tubing is stainless steel
  • Hose can be cut with a hacksaw
  • Installation is a snap
  • Lifetime warranty

User questions & answers

Question: Will this kit to top and bottom
Answer: It will form to any shape and cut to length

48" Chrome Stainless Steel Radiator Hose Kit, Flexible Radiator Hose Kit, with 4pcs Chrome Caps

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

48" Chrome Stainless Steel Flexible Radiator Hose Kit

Item exactly the same as picture shown ,Please check the picture before you buy



Product Feature

1: flexible radiator hose Made from extremely high quality stainless steel

2: Stainless hose will not blow or rot out like a rubber one

3: These hoses can be formed by simply bending them to the desired shape, Flexible design eliminates the hassle of finding a rubber hose with just the right bends

4: The Hose Can Be Cut To Desired Length.

5: This chrome radiator hose kit can be used with 1 1/4", 1 1/2", 1 3/4" radiator necks

6: 100% brand new, 1 Year Warranty, Buy with confidence!

  • ★ ITEM NUMBER: 48" Chrome Stainless Steel Flexible Radiator Hose Kit, contains enough ends for 2 lengths of hose. Clamps, sleeves, reducers, caps.
  • ★ PREMIUM QUALITY: Made from extremely high quality stainless steel, then chromed to a beautiful shine. Stainless hose will not blow or rot out like a rubber one
  • ★ EASY TO INSTALL: These hoses can be formed by simply bending them to the desired shape, Flexible design eliminates the hassle of finding a rubber hose with just the right bends, The hose can also be cut to the required length
  • ★ PRODUCT FEATURE: This radiator hose kit can be used with 1 1/4", 1 1/2", 1 3/4" radiator necks
  • ★ QUALITY ASSURANCE: 100% brand new Stainless Steel flex radiator hose, 1 Year Warranty, Buy with confidence! If problem in the year quality warranty time, pls not hesitate to contact us for a free and easy replacement or refund.

BLACKHORSE-RACING 24" Stainless Steel Radiator Flexible Coolant Water Hose Kit with Caps Universal

BLACKHORSE-RACING

Based on 122 reviews Check latest price
  • √ 24" Stainless Steel Radiator Flex Hose Kit
  • √ This kit can be used with 1 1/4", 1 1/2" or 1 5/8" radiator necks
  • √ Flexible design eliminates the hassle of finding a rubber hose with just the right bends
  • √Stainless hose will not blow or rot out like a rubber one
  • √ Item exactly the same as picture shown ,Please check the picture before you buy

User questions & answers

Question: what is the i.d
Answer: 1 /12 "
Question: Hello! will this fit huyindai sonata 2012? thanks
Answer: its universal, comes with 3 sizes of adaptor, the one i purchased worked great but too long, cut 11 inches off and threw in trash, found another one on web site that was 24 inches, this one is 36 so make sure and measure yours to see how long you need it, might save you some money
Question: Can someone put a magnet to it to see if it is really stainless and then what quality (it is less magnetic the better it is
Answer: It is NOT magnetic, however mine is on my T-bucket and I had to put on the polishing wheel to make it shine better. Other than that, it works fine
Question: I need 1.75 on one end and 2” other end
Answer: can I get a 2 " adapter as my radiator has a 2" outlet

Product features

Package including

  • 24" Stainless Steel Hose
  • Polished Aluminum Ends
  • Rubber Sleeves
  • Rubber Reducers
  • Hose Clamps
  • FItment:universal
  • Note: Please allow 1-3CM differs due to manual measurement and due to the different display and different light, the picture may not reflect the actual color of the item.

TAKPART 24" Flexible Stainless Steel Radiator Hose Kit with Chrome Caps

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price
  • This item can be used with 1 1/4", 1 1/2", or 1 3/4" radiator necks.
  • Package includes: hose clamps, rubber sleeve adapters, reducers & chrome end cap covers, like main picture shows.
  • The hose can be cut to length.
  • Please feel free to contact seller if you have any questions.

Gates 25478 Vulco-Flex II Flexible Coolant Hose

SharkBite

Based on 37 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Gates Vulco-Flex II coolant hose is a flexible, durable hose designed to bend in almost any direction. Engineered with improved sealing surface for greater leak resistance, this hose easily replicates the angles and planes of a wide variety of expensive OE coolant hoses for quick, easy, and cost-effective replacement.

  • Improved sealing surface for greater leak resistance
  • High flexibility for easy installation
  • Maximum vehicle coverage with minimum inventory
  • Resistant to heat, oil and ozone
  • Rated for SAE 20R5 Class D-2 performance

User questions & answers

Question: Is this rubber or steel
Answer: The description is correct. TPI only published pictures of the corded version of the Hot Pod so it is what we has to work with. If this was the corded version the model number would end in 2CT rather than 2T.
Question: is this a 1 1/2 id hose
Answer: That's correct. This product does not draw 83 amps.

Dayco 81331 Radiator Hose

Dayco

Based on 18 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Dayco radiator flex hose measures 1.75" by 16.5" and the heavy duty construction will hold up against road debris, coolants, salt and temperature variations. Reinforced with knitted rayon for maximum strength and burst resistance for the life of the hose.

  • 1.75" by 16.5" flex hose
  • Heavy duty construction holds up against road debris, coolants, salt and temperature variations
  • Burst resistance guarantee for the life of the hose
  • Reinforced with knitted rayon for maximum strength and burst resistance
  • Meets or exceeds OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) requirements

User questions & answers

Question: is the 1.75" the id size or the od
Answer: Yes it is a Nichrome element

Allstar Performance ALL30212 1-1/2" x 25" Upper Radiator Hose

Allstar

Based on 77 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Two-ply coolant hose is flexible and adapts to a variety of applications. Abrasion resistant cover will not crack or harden.

  • Package Dimensions: 4.445 H x 63.5 L x 4.445 W (centimetres)
  • Package Weight: 1.35 pounds
  • Fit type: Vehicle Specific
  • Country of Origin : Mexico

User questions & answers

Question: what is the I.D. of the hose
Answer: 1.5
Question: does it have 1 3/4 inch on one end and 2 inch on other
Answer: 1.75 and 1.5
Question: Is this hose 1.75" on both sides
Answer: No , it’s 1.75” Diameter on one side and 1.5” diameter on the other
Question: is this formable, will it hold its shape when bent
Answer: No, it’s reinforced with a wire like material and rubber is elastic. It will spring back to a straight pipe if a force is not applied to keep its shape.

Assault Racing Products 4504800 48" Flexible Stainless Steel Radiator Hose Kit with Chrome Caps

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This kit can be used with 1 1/4", 1 1/2", or 1 3/4" radiator necks. Kit contains enough ends for 2 lengths of hose. Clamps, sleeves, reducers, caps, and instructions included. Flexible design eliminates the hassle of finding a rubber hose with just the right bends. Stainless hose will not blow or rot out like a rubber one.

  • Stainless Steel
  • Radiator Necks: 1 1/4", 1 1/2", 1 3/4"
  • Four End Caps

User questions & answers

Question: The picture show 4 end caps but the add says 2 end caps. Which is it
Answer: 4 end caps. 2 for the top hose and 2 for the bottom hose.
Question: What is the outside diameter of the hose itself
Answer: It is 1 1/4” hose, with adapters for 1 1/2” and 1 3/4”.
Question: What is the end caps made of
Answer: Appears to be plastic
Question: can you buy a set upper and lower hose kit
Answer: There are additional “ends” available if you search Amazon. There is more than enough hose for upper and lower hoses.

Hose

Precision Brand

Based on 18 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Shortening Shims are precision die cut to fit with close tolerances around the shoulder screw shank to fit under the screw head. Made from a 302 full hard stainless steel. Fits 8mm diameter shoulder screw.

User questions & answers

Question: can this hose be cut
Answer: Usually the size listed is the ID. You can go to Dayco's website and look up the part number for more info.
Question: Is this a flexible hose
Answer: it is a rubber hose
Question: How long is this hose
Answer: Yes. 1 1/2" id and 17" length
Question: inside diameter? (of BOTH ends
Answer: The fan can be controlled separately from each heating stage. I have a programmable controller controlling my hot pod with 3 separate relays. 1 relay for fan and 2 separate heat relays

48" Stainless Steel Radiator Coolant Hose Kit,Flexible Radiator Hose Kit with 4pcs Caps Universal

Product description

48" Stainless Steel Radiator Flex Hose Kit

High quality,100% brand new,reliable quality and long service life.

Made from extremely high quality stainless steel,stainless hose will not blow or rot out like a rubber one.

Flexible design eliminates the hassle of finding a rubber hose with just the right bends.

Compatible with 1 1/4", 1 1/2", or 1 3/4" radiator necks

Package Includes: 

1 x Radiator Coolant Water Hose 

4x Hose Clamps



  • The high quality 48" stainless steel radiator flex hose kit,100% brand new,reliable quality and long service life.
  • This 48" Flexible Radiator Hose Kit is made from extremely high quality stainless steel,stainless hose will not blow or rot out like a rubber one.
  • This 48" hose kit can be formed by simply bending them to the desired shape, Flexible design eliminates the hassle of finding a rubber hose with just the right bends.
  • This 48" stainless steel radiator flexible coolant Water hose kit suitable for most hot rods and classics engines in the market,can be used with 1 1/4", 1 1/2", or 1 5/8" radiator necks.
  • Satisfaction guaranteed! Try any product we sell for a full 30 days. If not completely satisfied, return it to us for a no-hassle refund or credit.

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