How to Tighten or Replace Coolant Hoses in a Chevy Silverado
- 1). Allow the engine to cool for at least an hour after driving and remove the radiator cap. Place a bucket or catch can under the radiator drain plug and release enough coolant to limit leaking when removing the hose.
- 2). Loosen the hose clamps with a nut driver or pliers on a spring clamp. Slide the clamps to the middle of the hose. Pull or twist the hose until it's freed from the nipple. Cut difficult hoses with a knife and peel the hose away from the connector.
- 3). Slide the clamps onto the new hose and dip the ends of the hose into clean coolant. Push the hose onto the nipples. Turn the hose around if it's difficult to get in place. Hose ends are often slightly different diameters and will only go on one way.
- 4). Tighten the clamps with a pair of pliers or a nut driver of screw clamps. Take care not to over tighten and damage the hose or connectors.
- 5). Close the drain plug if necessary and fill the radiator with a 50/50 mixture of coolant and water. Replace the radiator cap and start the Chevy Silverado. Look for leaks and add coolant as necessary when the system begins to circulate.
