Radiator Hose collapsed!!!

Shane06fl · 10-16-2006, 07:35 PM

Friday morning Iwas getting ready to leave out for a 700 miles round trip. I had the had ATV's all loaded on the trailer and I pulled down on the street where it was level so I could do a final oil check. I wait about 10 minutes then pop the hood and I noticed the top radiator hose was collapsed! it had flattened out like a pancake!!. I took of the radiator cap and it sucked air and the hose popped back in to shape. I went on with the trip with problems and checked the hose each time I stopped and it was fine. I have never had a Radiator hose do this before. Any ideas on what caused it?

**ArmyAviation** · 10-16-2006, 07:41 PM

Low fluid? did you check your reservoir for proper level?

titanmike · 10-16-2006, 08:12 PM

I had that happen on an old 81 ford f-100 that i had. Just happen to be checking the oil too and noticed it. I did the same thing you did and never noticed it again. I also drove it for about a week with no water. Water pump went out and i didn't know it (none of the guages worked). I also once had to put in 3 quarts of oil to get it back on the stick. I tried to kill that thing and never could. Its still drinking oil and smoking like a chimney but running strong. its a 302 by the way.

bestatchess · 10-16-2006, 08:15 PM

I like guessing games:

1. Bad radiator cap.

2. Hose to coolant overflow reservoir pinched or obstructed.

Shane06fl · 10-16-2006, 08:24 PM

Fluid level is good, engine temp is fine. Don't know.

The only thing I can figure is that the water pump pulled a vacuume for the short drive down on to the street with a cold start and the thermostat never had a chance to open. I think I will change the hose for safety measures, those hoses aren't designed to collapse and it may have weakend some. Might even haveto make time to visit a dealer. what a PIA!