Heater Core Inlet/Oulet Question

[Kevan]

Hey folks.
I'm wondering if the inlet and outlet barb fittings on the firewall (for the heater core) are replaceable.

I pose the same question for the same fittings on the oil cooler.

Anyone changed these out? NPT size?
TIA

 

[Viper Specialty]

No, neither the fittings of the core nor the barbs on the cooler are replaceable.

 

[Kevan]

No, neither the fittings of the core nor the barbs on the cooler are replaceable.

That kinda *****.

How about the inlet and outlet on the block?
I suppose I could go down to the garage, turn on a light and pop the hood....
LOL

I'm asking because I'm replacing lines with spiffy braided ones, and trying to use AN fittings wherever possible.
The current selection of faux-AN fittings (hose clamp with anodized cover that looks like an AN fitting) is pretty weak.
Alternate suggestions welcome.

 

[Viper Specialty]

That kinda *****.

How about the inlet and outlet on the block?
I suppose I could go down to the garage, turn on a light and pop the hood....
LOL

I'm asking because I'm replacing lines with spiffy braided ones, and trying to use AN fittings wherever possible.
The current selection of faux-AN fittings (hose clamp with anodized cover that looks like an AN fitting) is pretty weak.
Alternate suggestions welcome.

IMHO, I would not attempt to replace all of the formed OEM hoses with SS-AN, it is simply not flexible enough, and will require far too much work to make a decent looking setup.

If anything, I would look into the SS sheathing/faux hose ends that can be purchased, and slide it over the existing hoses. Perhaps even better, try to locate a woven fiber heat-wrap, it will look much like SS covering if it is found in Silver, offer heat protection, and also be the most flexible.

 

[Kevan]

Thanks Dan.
I hear ya, but I'm going to do the braided lines.

There are (2) "guides" for the heater core lines in the truck that will take care of the bends and routing.

I'm not doing SS braid though. I think the truck weighs enough in front (heh heh), and with the diameter of -10AN lines, these won't be just a few ounces.
I'm using the nylon braided lines. Much easier to work with (cut, fittings, etc), and a significant weight reduction over SS.

In place of the faux-AN clamps, I found this cool type of clamp from Gates:
Thermoplastic Clamp Offers Maintenance-Free Hose Connection - Clamps - Products | Gates Corporation
It's a thermoplastic piece that 'clamps down' when heated up, kinda like really heavy duty heat-shrink.
The nice part is that they look pro (save for the bigass GATES logo on them), and are easy to attach with a heat gun. No knuckle-busting!
The downside is that they are a one-time use clamp. If you want to take the clamp or hose off, you have to slice through the clamp. Bummer, but at less than $2 each, I'm not too broken up about it.

I'm doing a DIY article for another forum regarding replacing all these hoses. If you'd like a link to it or the info on what parts/connections/dimensions are needed, let me know. I'm happy to pass along the info.

 

[Viper Specialty]

Ah, didnt know you were talking about a truck, not a car. that will make things a bit easier.