VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND NEWER 1949-1954 How to remove radiator in 1950 Chevy car

I need to replace the original radiator in my 1950 Chevy Coup Styleline Delux with 235 engine 6 volt Powerglide. I have removed all the nuts, disconnected the upper hose, removed the pitcock valve and loosened the retainers on the bottom radiator hose. I can't figure out how to remove the lower hose. I have the new radiator.

Question 1: How does one remove the radiator after all the above? How is the lower hose to the water pump removed after the retainers are lose?

Question 2: How does one install the new radiator bottom hose onto the radiator and the water pump? I think one would attach the lower hose with the clamp then have someone guide the free end onto the water pump while I lower the radiator but I'm not sure.

Thanks for any help

Mel

All I can say when I did mine it was not easy. I believe I ended up cutting the lower hose - which should be replaced anyway.

I agree with Gene that it can be a real pain to remove old hoses.

I do have a Lisle set 80830 of 5 hose removal picks. You have at least a fighting change to break the hose loose for the radiator and pump nipples with them. Access is a real limitation.

I do use Gene’s approach when I know that the hose should be replaced. I start by only cutting the hose into 2 parts. That gives you something to grab and pull. Later in the process you might cut more away.

Thanks Rusty. Cutting the lower hose to remove it is a good idea. However how does one install the new radiator and lower hose, secure one end to the radiator and then how does one attach the other end of the hose to the water pump? Any ideas?

Mel

One approach I use is to install the hose on the water pump first, but do no clamp it tightly. Leave the clamp loose enough that you can rotate the hose. You can move the hose around enough to get the end started on the radiator outlet as you lower the radiator into place. Then use a small round shank Phillips screwdriver the roll the hose onto the outlet. Sort of like mounting a tire.

I use Rugylde as a lubricant to help install rubber parts. Others use dishwashing detergent. I would not use silicone spray and definitely do not use a petroleum based lubricant.

The cooler to water pump hose is fairly easy. The hard one is the short cooler to radiator.

Thanks Rusty, I appreciate your help
Mel